In seeking to live out the faith we have in Jesus, we're often tempted to give up and give in to either that which is plainly contrary to God's revealed will from Scripture and in Jesus, or probably more likely, we're tempted to give in to something less, not really pressing towards the goal in Jesus to which we're called.
The call of God in Scripture is clear, and it's challenging, and it's goal is nothing less than the moving to complete conformity to Christ himself. It's a goal not only of us as individuals, but as those together in Jesus. So that I must not be only concerned about myself, but I must also be concerned about my brother and sister in Jesus.
Sometimes we're just plain overcome in our weakness or sin. This is when we have to stop in our tracks, repent and look to God for his help as we seek to get back into his will and working for us, in Jesus. When we see another brother or sister who may be struggling, then we need to pray for them, and seek to be present for them, primarily in listening, and afterwards, perhaps offering some prayerful words of counsel or instruction along with prayer. And we need to be open to such help ourselves.
What is most important here is just the point, when we're "under it", and we will be at times, then we must not give up and give in. We must instead look to God. Read a book from Scripture (I read Philippians Sunday afternoon from The Message and found it helpful).
What have you found to be true in this that can help us?
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6 comments:
i think that i am often overcome, and sometimes do not even realize it.
and being present for others that are struggling by prayer and listening is a good for my thoughts right now.
always good to be riminded to read scripture.
Ted,
Thank you brother for this encouraging and powerful post.
I needed to hear these words today.
I pray you have a blessed week brother.
In Him,
Kinney Mabry
Thanks, Nancy. Yes, It's maybe like drifting when things seem okay, and being overcome or maybe weakened, like Samson, as we drift away from our dedication to Christ. Easy as can be, for me, anyhow.
Thanks, Kinney.
Yes, I wrote this and many of my other simple posts, for myself. But as Scripture says, we shouldn't think the trial that has hit us is uncommon, for it really is shared by many others.
yes, our battle against the opposite or opposition of evil that is so present in this world.
overcome by being in God.
be not distracted from the joy that we are given when we are looking to God and His light that He is. His being, His Glory, and the gift of Himself that we receive when we are giving, praying, loving, patient and suffering with others.
looking to God no matter where we are looking. being with God no matter where we are. listening to God no matter who is talking. talking to God always...no matter who we are talking to.
it is where we find the joy that is ours from Him. it is where we find fellowship, the peace, love, truth and life.
Nancy,
Thanks for sharing that. Good words for us all!!! God in everything, and in the ways you describe it.
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