The carnal person lives in rebellion to God’s desires for
our life. The natural person resists God’s redemption and forfeits His peace
and joy both on earth and for eternity. The focus of carnality is on the self
and everything that benefits the flesh, regardless of any spiritual priorities
or needs. Even Born Again people often cater to their flesh more than their
spirit.
However, this carnal focus will not continue in the life of
an authentic Believer. Our union with Christ makes a huge difference in our
life. God’s Spirit will continually convict the sinful soul of His priorities.
We find the freedom of forgiven sin, the contentment of acceptance in God’s
Family and the security of our identity in Christ’s character within us (Galatians
5:22-23).
God’s Spirit renews our mind (2 Corinthians 4:16; Titus
3:5), transforms our emotions (Ephesians 3:16-20) and heals
our body (Psalm 103:3). We enjoy worshipping our King
more than serving our flesh. We willingly lay down the deeds of our flesh,
because we realize that in Christ our flesh is already dead (Colossians
3:3-4). Spiritually alive, we experience victory over both sin and
death (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Prayer:
Father God, by Your divine power, You provide us with every
resource we need to live a godly life (2 Peter 1:3). The fact
that You dwell in us by Your Spirit and that You will perfect us in spirit,
soul and body relieves so much pressure from us on a daily basis (Ephesians
1:14). We do not have to perfect our self. You give us the desire and the
ability to work out our own salvation, as we live in respect for Your authority
and power in us (Philippians 2:13).
Thought for the Day:
Be filled with the Spirit and speak to one
another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs; singing and making melody in
your heart to the Lord. – Ephesians 5:18-19
