I was reading Romans 8 today, the whole idea of choice got turned around on me. Our worldly view, our sinful desires, the great liar (Satan) would have us to always choose for ourselves. Surely we know what is best for us. Depend on your experiences! Depend on what you read on the internet, books, etc. You are smart enough to make this decision!
But I will tell, I do not have great success at this! Yes, I make reasonable decisions. But I don't make life giving decisions. What do I mean?
Romans 8:6 in the NLT reads:
So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.
If we look to God (Jesus, and the Spirit) to guide us in all thoughts and decisions, then the Spirit will lead us to a life, a life of peace. The Spirit will lead us to abundant life. Now does this mean, as the world would think, that we will have whatever we desire! NO. But it does mean that we will have what we need, and most of all, we will have peace and joy. Characteristics that cannot be bought!! My wife and I use a saying: Stop; Pause; and Pray! This gives us time for God to guide us in our actions, thoughts, and words! Extremely effective, but we have to do it!
Some other verses that support this same process:
Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:13
For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live,
Galatians 6:8
The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
In all of these, it is clear. We choose! Choose to live by our sinful natures, or to choose to live by the Spirit! Is this hard? Yep! It is part of the every day, dying to self, and looking to Jesus Christ for His way. The way that leads to life! Abundant life!
It feels "unworldly" to ask for direction on all things. But Paul is clear in the scriptures. If we don't ask for direction, then we will become a slave to our sinful selves!
So, join me. Start thinking positives. Focus on the positives. And pray to God in all situations! Start to see how God changes you, and then the situations around you. Press into God.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that it is National Marriage Week. Do something special for your spouse this week! Surprise her or him. I am so thankful for my wife, who walks with me. She is so special to me!
Praise God!
Donald
