Definition and Nature:
Lust, in the biblical context, is a strong, intense desire or craving, often of a sexual nature, that is contrary to the will of God. It is considered a sin when it leads individuals away from God's commandments and into actions or thoughts that are impure or immoral. Lust is not limited to sexual desires but can also encompass an intense longing for anything that is not rightfully ours or that leads us away from God.

Biblical References:
The Bible addresses the temptation of lust in various passages, emphasizing its destructive nature and the importance of resisting it. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery by addressing the heart's intentions: "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This teaching underscores the seriousness of lustful thoughts, equating them with the act of adultery itself.

The Apostle Paul also warns against the dangers of lust in his epistles. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, he writes, "For it is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You should avoid sexual immorality; each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God" . Here, Paul calls believers to live in holiness, contrasting the behavior of those who know God with those who do not.

Consequences of Lust:
The Bible illustrates the consequences of succumbing to lust through various narratives. One of the most notable examples is the account of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11). King David's lust for Bathsheba led to adultery, deceit, and ultimately murder. This account serves as a cautionary tale of how unchecked lust can lead to a cascade of sin and suffering.

James 1:14-15 further explains the progression of sin, stating, "But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death" . This passage highlights the internal nature of temptation and the deadly outcome of allowing lust to take root in one's life.

Resisting Lust:
The Bible provides guidance on resisting the temptation of lust. In Galatians 5:16, Paul advises, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" . Living by the Spirit involves cultivating a relationship with God, seeking His guidance, and allowing His power to transform one's desires.

Additionally, believers are encouraged to renew their minds and focus on what is pure and honorable. Philippians 4:8 instructs, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things" . By filling one's mind with godly thoughts, the temptation of lust can be diminished.

Practical Steps:
Practical steps to combat lust include prayer, accountability, and the avoidance of situations that may lead to temptation. Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:29-30, though hyperbolic, emphasizes the seriousness of taking drastic measures to avoid sin: "If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away... And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away" . This illustrates the importance of removing anything from one's life that may lead to lustful thoughts or actions.

In summary, the temptation of lust is a significant spiritual challenge addressed throughout Scripture. It requires vigilance, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to living a life that honors God.