May I suggest that your underlying motivation may be the problem?
Believe me ...I've been there and done that.
If you are a Christian, you have been given a new life. But too many people continue to live out their 'self life'. They indulge their flesh in so many ways.
- Do you struggle with eating too much food?
- Do you lack the discipline to say no to all that sugar?
- Do you desire to be included with the 'in crowd'?
- Do you love to go shopping for things you really don't need?
- Do you give in to gossip in the name of sharing things to pray?
- Do you have a hard time saying no for fear of rejection?
I'm sure you could add other examples to this list.
As Christians, we have the Holy Spirit within us. We have everything we need to live a Christ centered life. The problem is ...we continue to love to indulge our flesh.
I've been reading and studying the book of John. So many passages speak of the link between love and obedience.
John 14:15 says: "If you love me, you will obey what I command."
Scott Samter of Opening His Word has awesome teachings verse by verse that are available to all. I've been blessed by taking the time to listen and learn. And yes, he is Jill's husband of Forever N Ever N Always.
Love is a powerful motivator.
(I love these notecards but ran out of them. They are such a good illustration of how I sometimes feel. I can't remember where I bought them. If anyone knows, please let me know.) |
Instead of focusing on the lists of "don't do this" ... focus on spending more time getting to know and love Jesus.
It's amazing how the things you thought were so very important tend to fade away.
- Surrender every part of your life to Him.
- Ask Him to guide you and lead you each moment of the day.
- Spend time in His Word.
- Speak to Him in prayer.
- When you mess up, talk to Him about it.
And you will begin to obey Him and say no to your flesh.
Love is the best motivator.
Blessings and love,