At the root of sin and degradation is
pride and rebellion. These often stem from unresolved conflicts in our past. We
hide our pain behind a veneer of self-reliance in order to avoid further
injury.
We do not want to take a chance on
being vulnerable again. Struggling to survive, we choose self-absorption and
arrogance instead of living a life of humility and self-sacrifice.
We live within the parameters of our
sinful nature and set our mind on what our flesh desires (Romans 8:5). Our
spirit is dead in sin and we cannot help our self (Ephesians 2:1).
Even church attendees who claim Christ
as their savior play along with worldly culture, advice and popular demands.
They came under conviction at one point, but their life was never converted.
Political correctness, religious
pluralism, humanism and other new age lies color our concept of holiness. We
take the path of least resistance and follow the crowd.
We lack discernment, spiritual
understanding and perception. Caving in to the struggles, strain and stress of
everyday life, we turn away from Biblical wisdom, God's love and devotion.
Jesus is the perfect example of a
humble, yet powerful life. He said that no one could take His life until He was
ready to lay it down (John 10:18). By following Jesus' example we truly convert
from hedonism to holiness.
Jesus illustrates for us that the Lord
is our portion, provider and protector as we obey His Word. We seek His face
with our whole heart and God is gracious to us according to His promises (Psalm
119:57-58).
Prayer:
Father God, we invite Your Holy Spirit
to cleanse our thoughts, heal our memory, calm our fears, and direct our goals
and plans. We trust that in our pain and suffering, You are working out Your
will and purpose for our life, giving us opportunities to share Your love and
to bear fruit for Your Kingdom.
Teach us discernment through our life
experiences; heal our raw emotions of discontentment, loneliness and anxiety;
give us hope to overcome anger, unforgiveness and bitterness; and help us to
walk in Your will with faith for each moment of our day.
Thought for the Day:
The Holy Spirit wants to direct the
details of our day, so let's step aside, stop obsessing and trust and obey;
there is no better way to enjoy the joy of the Lord.
