As an authentic Born Again Believer, our motivation in life
comes from one of four sources: the flesh, the world, the devil or God's
Spirit. At times, it is hard to discern which one is influencing our thoughts,
emotions, desires and actions. We can discover the source of our motivation by
checking on our responses to the situation.
Are our thoughts, words and actions mirroring the fruit of
the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21) or the fruit of the spirit (Galatians
5:22-23)? Negative emotions and behavior are definite clues that
the flesh, the world or the devil is influencing us, rather than the Spirit (1 John
2:16). Fleshly conduct and demonic oppression in a Believer is the
direct result of not walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:15-18).
When we recognize that we are out of the Spirit, we can
confess our thoughts and behavior as sin, and ask our Father to renew a right
spirit in us (Psalm 51:10). God is always quick to forgive
us and to empower us with His Holy Spirit. Once we turn away from our carnal
behavior and seek the Lord's direction, He enables us to make amends to anyone
we hurt, while we operated in the flesh.
We walk in the Spirit as we stay connected to the Spirit
throughout the day. He will direct each moment and everything included in it,
if we seek Him first (Matthew 6:33). The more we rely on the Spirit,
the more victory we have over the flesh, the world and the devil (Ephesians
2:1-10). We are no longer motivated by worldly success, the
balance of our bank account, or the number and type of our friends, but by God.
Prayer:
Father God, remind us that we are an extension of Christ on
the earth (John 14:12). We walk in obedience to You to
the best of our ability, relying on the Holy Spirit to keep us on the straight
and narrow and in the center of Your will (Matthew 7:13-14; John 14:15). Thank
You for forgiving our shortcomings and inspiring us to focus on the eternal,
rather the earthly aspects of our life. We want all that we think, say and do
to bring You glory (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Thought for the Day:
Do not make plans; consult the Lord and follow His desire
for every moment of your day. - Proverbs 3:5-6
