We relate to our physical world with our five
senses as we involve our desires, instincts, emotions and intellect. We
interact in the spiritual world through our spirit, which is Born Again at the
moment of salvation.
God cares about every aspect of our life. We often
attempt to perfect our self by giving up what we consider worldly pursuits. Although there is truth in this concept, the
reality is that God created all good things for us to enjoy (1 Timothy 6:17).
He put us on this diverse and beautiful planet so
that all creation would point us to Him (Romans 1:20). The perfecting process
belongs to the Spirit of God, however.
If we attempt to perfect our self, we fail
miserably. We also thwart the Holy Spirit's work in our life. If we try in the
flesh to perfect our self, all we have is more flesh.
Instead, God's plan for us is that as He convicts
us, we repent and obey. As we enjoy creation, we see God's glory and majesty
surrounding us (Romans 1:20).
Consider our God-given talents in music, mechanics,
giving, art, engineering, caring, writing, teaching, technology, preaching,
serving, etc. These are wholesome activities.
It is the type of activity, and the amount of time
and money we put into it, that determines whether or not we are catering to
the flesh. Do we glorify God with what we do?
We actually balance out these earthly pursuits with
a spiritual mind as we follow the direction of God's Spirit to do them all for
the glory of God. Paul pointed out to us that even what we eat and drink should
be done for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Prayer:
Father God, we do not want to live and walk in our
flesh, or to hunger after fleshly pursuits and worldly acclaim. We desire
nothing more than to sit at Your feet and to learn from You. Please fill us
with Your presence and Your Spirit. Lead, guide and direct us to walk in Your
ways.
Help us to share the goodness that You provide for
us each day with those whom You planted in our life. Teach us to care about
other people more than we care about our self; but help us also to have a balance
in this, so that we never neglect our self or our needs (Mark 12:30-31). In all
things we want to give You all of the praise, glory and honor due to Your name.
Thought for the Day:
Our soul requires times of leisure and recreation
in order to maximize its effectiveness. If our soul - our thoughts, emotions
and choices - does not prosper, our body and spirit will suffer also. - 3 John
1:2
