The
longing in our spirit for rebirth manifests in negative emotions, physical
ailments and discontentment, even if we achieve every humanistic plan and goal,
which we set out to accomplish.
Then,
we make new plans; but they are no more fulfilling once we reach them. We
ignore the signs, which tell us that we are spiritually dead.
Our
reaction to trials defines our relationship with Christ. Do we attempt to
overcome tribulation in our own strength? Do we pull our self up by our
bootstraps and put one foot in front of the other until we muddle our way
through the trial?
Or,
do we focus on Christ in the midst of every moment of our day, obey the
guidance of His Holy Spirit and trust God to work out every situation for our
ultimate good? (Romans 8:28)
As
individuals we have a responsibility to fulfill in the body of Christ. Each of
us is gifted with a spiritual gift and we are to exercise them accordingly.
Using
our gifts to edify Christ's body brings us joy and fulfillment. We live, move
and have our existence in Christ at the same time that Christ is in us (Acts
17:28).
Living
in the Spirit enables us to shed the devil's lies and to replace them with
God's truth. We are freed from self-condemning thoughts and are able to totally
surrender to God's plan for each moment of our day (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
Every
individual member walks in the Spirit, accomplishing God's will for each moment
of our day. We find our joy in the shadow of God's wings (Psalm 91:4). Living
in the center of His will is the happiest place on earth.
Prayer:
Father
God, You lead us in paths of righteousness so that we do not bring shame upon
Your name (Psalm 23:3). As we abide in Jesus, and He abides in us, we share in
His humility and holiness and bring honor and glory to Your name. You already
won the victory over sin and death through Jesus' death and resurrection from
the cross.
We
share in this victory once we confess our sins and surrender our life to You.
Thank You for conforming our mind to Christ's mind, and helping us to renew our
soul - our thoughts, emotions and choices - through the truth of Your Word. We
enjoy partaking in this transforming journey with Your indwelling Spirit within
us.
Thought
for the Day:
As
we maintain an eternal focus on Christ in us and God's preordained plan for our
life, we enjoy His peace and joy that defy explanation and give us new life. -
Ephesians 2:10
