Embracing the faith life

Continuing from the last post, let's visit about what it looks like to live a faith life.  First of all, we are to present our bodies as a living and holy sacrifice.  Living means we are always faced with choices, so where does the sacrifice come in?  We come to a fork in the road with every choice that means we either get swept away by the power of our feelings or we deny our flesh and choose in faith to follow the will of God.  Now what does this look like in the moment?

Here is an example of words that I use, "Father, I reject these things of the flesh and instead I choose your nature, your ways.  I choose to receive your leadership and kingship over my life.  I set the thoughts of my mind and the desires of my heart upon you.  Thank you for your abiding life."  This is just an example.  I will continue on in this way with an attitude of repentance (turning and embracing new life and his ways), gratitude and praise.  This becomes a way of life because the flesh is always trying to overcome.  Now, you may ask, how does the flesh try to overcome?

Many triggers are found while in relationship with other people.  Maybe someone aggravates you in a certain conversation and your flesh wants to respond by expressing agitation and impatience.  You may expect a person to respond in a certain way based on what you've said and done and instead they react differently which can set you off.  These are just 2 examples of many.

Death to self is the key to life in Christ.  Remain in me and I will remain in you (John 15:4).  Do you long for true deep seated joy, freedom, peace, and steadiness in your life?  Dealing with the things of flesh in your life, repenting and embracing the work and character of Christ, and then to remain in him moment by moment is where this is found.  Is this easy?  No way.  The world has many empty and deceptive alternatives that you will be tempted to try.  Being yoked with Christ, one with him and unified in spirit (1 Cor 6:17) is the only way.

So with these things in mind, persevere to run your race.  When you fall, get back up.  Endeavor to set your mind on the things of God, his nature and his kingdom.  Until next time my friends.

 

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