Good Morning 01-19

"Rather, clothe yourselves with the LORD Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature."
- Romans 13:14

Many of us would find victory over our weaknesses if we made some changes in the pattern of our lives. Paul was speaking of this need when he said that "we should not make provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts." Honestly evaluate the company you keep, the books and magazines you read, the programs you view on TV, or the routes you travel each day. If they lead you into temptation and spiritual defeat, then it's time to change your path.

So how do we clothe ourselves with the LORD Jesus Christ? First we identify with Christ by being baptized (Gal. 3:27). This shows our solidarity with other Christians and with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Second, we exemplify the qualities Jesus showed while He was here on earth (love, humility, truth, service). In a sense, we role-play what Jesus would do in our situation Eph. 4:24-32 and Col. 3:10-17. We also must not give our desires any opportunity to lead us into sin. Avoid those situations that open the door to gratifying sinful desires.

Make not provision for the flesh
This is the wise, the warning word
For all who would temptation flee,
And for the Christian battle gird!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - A good traffic rule on the road of life: When you meet temptation, keep to the right!