Here is a short writing on what IS the Flesh from our carnal nature.
Some Characteristics of the Self-life Inherent in the Fallen Nature that Satan Fostered on the World
*[These must all be taken to the Cross and laid at the feet of Jesus once and forever by Joe Mydock]
Therefore "Come out from among them {the world and its ways} And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you"{into my kingdom-life}. (2 Cor. 6:17 NKJV}
1) Wants to be noticed – for what it has, for what it is doing {even for the Lord}
2) Wants to be recognized
3) Likes to be honored
4) Needs to be appreciated
5) Desires a reputation
6) Feels sorry for itself
7) Is afraid of missing out on some opportunity
8) Pampers self
9) Indulges self
10) Serves itself first, before or even while serving others
11) Worries
12) Is anxious
13) Holds to the idea that it deserves something
14) Is easily influenced by the opinions of others so it will be accepted
15) Is touchy; a. About its possessions; b. About what others may say
16) Likes to be in charge
17) Likes to control others
18) Likes to be seen
19) Thinks highly of its opinions and loves to express them
20) Sets goals
21) Works to control life’s circumstances
22) Seeks its own security rather than trust God to guide and provide
23) Has its mind on earthly things
24) Avoids unpleasant or difficult circumstances
25) Likes to be comfortable
26) Complains
27) Is resentful
28) Is concerned about being treated fairly
29) Gloats over failures and disappointments of others, expressed in such phrases as:
a. “They had it coming to them.”
b. “They got what they deserved.”
30) Likes to hear its name called or mentioned
31) Is willing to give of itself as long as it gets something in return, even if only recognition
32) Insists on having or doing things its way
33) Is self-sufficient, including the belief that it can somehow overcome and change the previously mentioned characteristics by human {or self} effort