Galatians 5: 14-17 - "So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit and the Spirit desires what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want."
Have you ever really wanted to do something but it just seems that you can't get around to it. You just can't make the time. Take for instance studying the Bible. How many times have you made the decision to start studying on a regular basis. "I'm gonna read every day." How long did it last? Did you even get past one week, or a day, or even get started? I'm going to eat healthier and loose some weight.......right after this twinkie!
It is so hard for people to really commit to something. Why? Because we want to be in charge. We want to make the decisions. I don't want to have to actually study the Bible. It would be so much easier if the preacher would just tell me what it says. I don't want to go to the gym to lose weight, I just want to take a pill and go on the Krispy Kreme diet!
I love bluegrass music. A couple years ago, Karen got me a banjo for Christmas. I really tried to learn it but then put it down. A while back I decided to pick it up again and really try to learn it. I even checked into lessons. One day I said a prayer to God that if he would allow me to learn how to play the banjo, I would use it for His glory somehow. (I know, kinda silly but I really meant it.) Wouldn't you know that that was the last day I picked that thing up and it has been several months.
We are told that, as Christians, we will be persecuted. You had better believe that whenever he gets the chance, Satan will try to derail every good plan you make. If it is going to be for the glory of God, Satan will stop at nothing to spoil your plans.
Does that mean that we should stop trying? No way! We know that we will be persecuted. We are told that in 2 Timothy 3:12 "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." If we know it is coming, it should be easier for us to prepare. We trust in Jesus and know that the Bible is the inspired word of God, so why should we be so surprised when life throws us a curve ball just when we thought everything was going our way?
We need to learn to celebrate our trials. If Satan is attacking us, we must be doing something worth attacking. We got his attention!
Back in Galatians 5:6 we are told"....the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
Next time you are under attack, remember to show your faith through loving others. Next time you see me going through a trial, remind me that I wrote this!
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