Everyone knows that life on this earth is but a vapor in time (James 4:14). Many do not want to live this short life in the miserable clutches of sin (Romans 7:24). They recognize their limitations and gladly come to Jesus for his wisdom, mercy and strength (2 Chronicles 16:9). When we fully surrender to Christ, He impacts our assets, lifestyle, possessions and relationships by directing our decisions through the leading of His Spirit (John 16:13). His peace and joy permeate every nuance of our life.
Our sin nature passes away at Salvation and we are a new
creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). We relinquish the world and
grasp onto the freedom in body, soul and spirit, for which Jesus apprehended us
(Philippians
3:12). When we live and move and have our being in Christ, we no
longer exist in condemnation and sin (Acts 17:28; Romans 8:1). Christ in
us is our hope of attaining a glorious future (Colossians 1:27). We can
even share this hope with our family and friends (Jeremiah 29:11).
The Law of Sin and Death, under which we formerly
struggled, is replaced by the Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus (Romans
7:22-25, 8:2). We forgive our self for our shortcomings, because God
already forgave us (Romans 5:8). Rather than living with a carnal
mind, we focus on spiritual and eternal aspects (2 Corinthians 4:18; Romans
8:6). We renew our mind and take our thoughts captive to the obedience of
Christ (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Philippians 4:8-9). Sin no
longer appeals to us in any way (James 4:1; Galatians 5:17).
Our true identity, value and purpose in this life are only
realized as we look to Jesus for our worth. Every achievement in this world
will burn up as wood, hay and stubble (1 Corinthians 3:12). However,
no one can take away from us the fact that God adopted us as co-heirs with
Jesus Christ (Romans 8:15-17). God works out every catastrophe
in our life for our good, as well as rewards us with an eternal heritage. At
the same time, His Spirit conforms us into the image of Christ (Romans
8:28-29).
Prayer:
Father God, you spoil Your children and always provide what
is best for us. Many people blame You for the effects of sin in this world.
They curse You for the death of their loved ones and for spoiling their wealth.
However, You adopt into Your family those who surrender to You. You work
everything out for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).
Everything You allow into our life comes from Your sacrificial love for us. You
ultimately give us safety and provision (Luke 12:28-38).
Thought for the Day:
We know without a doubt that
when we leave this earthly realm, the angels will escort us to our glorious
future in the presence of the Lord. – 2 Corinthians 5:8
