There are things of this life, and of this world, that I have a craving for. It is hard to have the self-control to give them up. And yet they are things that in time will corrupt my body, mind, and soul.
Is this a challenge for you as well?
Why is it hard for Christians to set their minds on the things of God, and maintain a spiritual mind set that can not be shaken?
The apostle Paul tells of the challenge that he dealt with, in his life:
"For the good that I wish, I do not do; but I practice the very evil,that I do not wish." (Romans 7:19)
When the desires of the flesh kick in, they take us well away from the will of God, for our lives. And after we have yielded to temptation, and given ourselves to sinful thoughts and actions, we feel guilty about it.
In spite of knowing the right that we should do, we give in to the desires that are so strong, and the temporary thrill that is such a delight at the time. But then the thought of disappointing God, and placing ourselves at odds with Him, is very disheartening.
The question is: What is the key to setting our minds on the things of God? What is it that will keep us on a constant steadfast place with God, instead of with the world?
The key is our constant abiding in the true Vine (Jesus Christ) John 15.
No one else can keep us from slipping into sin. Not only does He save us, but He sustains us. As Christians, the old "life is dead, and is hidden with Christ in God." With our cooperation with our Lord Jesus Christ, He will help the old life, to stay dead! GP
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