Good Morning!
I finally got caught up with my bible plan. That’s good. I’m still overdue with my prayer life and journaling. My hope is to get those back on track, too. Like I discussed yesterday, I don’t want to make a formula out of this, but it is for my own benefit to have a healthy connection with God. Now, don’t misunderstand. Our God is worthy of praise and honor at all times, whether or not I feel like giving it to him or whether or not I actually do. Who am I to pick and choose when I worship him?
Am I really any different than the Israelites? Whenever they drew near, God was there. Whenever they strayed, things went badly. It’s no different with me. Or you. I guess, in a real sense, I’m even worse. Why? Because I have the Holy Spirit residing inside of me, and they did not. He is united with me to guide me, to encourage me, to enlighten me, and, yes, even to convict me. Still, I tune him out so, so easily.
How can that even be possible?
A friend yesterday pointed Romans 7 out to me. While I agree completely that Christ died for my sin and that with regard to judgment I am sin free, I also still have this body of flesh that is prone to sin. Let’s face it, our most basic sin is ignoring God.
That’s the thing that disgusts me about myself. And, that’s exactly what Paul wrestles with about himself in Romans 7. Then, we have Romans 8! One is life in the flesh, the other is life in the Spirit. Yes, I should spend my time in the Spirit, but I don’t always – to my own detriment.
It’s good for me to recognize this contrast. How can one repent unless you face up to that which you have done? I have not been spending intimate, one-on-one time with Jesus. Plain and simple. I have found other things far to important. I like to use the word “shiny.” My attention is drawn away from Jesus. Let me rephrase that. My eyes easily wander.
It’s time to get back on track. And, really, how easy is it once I get out of my own way. In fact, there is no barrier whatsoever.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
There you have it. The ball is in my court. It always is.
Father, I draw near to you today. I confess my wandering. I welcome your forgiveness. Thank you. Amen.
Copyright © 2018 Scott Powers