John Calvin Commentary Romans 13:14

"But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof]." — Romans 13:14 (ASV)

But put you on the Lord Jesus Christ, etc. This metaphor is commonly used in Scripture concerning what tends to adorn or to deform man; both of which may be seen in his clothing: for a filthy and torn garment dishonors a man, but what is becoming and clean commends him. Now, to put on Christ means here to be fortified on every side by the power of his Spirit, and so be prepared to discharge all the duties of holiness; for in this way the image of God is renewed in us, which is the only true ornament of the soul. For Paul had in view the end of our calling, since God, by adopting us, unites us to the body of his only-begotten Son, and for this purpose — that we, renouncing our former life, may become new men in him. For this reason, he also says in another place that we put on Christ in baptism (Galatians 3:27).

And have no care, etc. As long as we carry our flesh with us, we cannot cast off all concern for it; for though our citizenship is in heaven, we still live as temporary residents on earth. The things, then, that pertain to the body must be taken care of, but only as they are helps to us in our pilgrimage, and not so that they may make us forget our country. Even pagans have said that a few things are enough for nature's needs, but that the appetites of men are insatiable. Therefore, everyone who wishes to satisfy the desires of the flesh must necessarily not only fall into but be immersed in a vast and deep gulf.

Paul, setting a bridle on our desires, reminds us that the cause of all intemperance is that no one is content with a moderate or lawful use of things; he has therefore laid down this rule — that we are to provide for the needs of our flesh, but not to indulge its lusts. It is in this way that we will use this world without abusing it.