Have “Real Life”

Scripture:  Ephesians 5:15-16 - See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,
redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
And so it is God wants us, especially when we say we are His, to be spiritually minded
(wise). For who He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His
Son.   Romans 8:29…gives the plan for the life of a Christ lover. His plan is for us to
obey Him!

For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Rom
8:6)…So it is either I am carnal or spiritual. Either I obey sin or I obey God. My bend,
of course, is toward sin. Alone, there is no good that dwells in me (Rom 7:18).  But with
Christ and all His work, I can bear fruit of God (Rom 7:4b).

Dwelling with God brings responsibility and accountability. No, I am not perfect but I
am being made perfect. This means I have to be okay with God checking me and
correcting my thinking. Hebrews 12:6 states, For whom the LORD loves He chastens,
and scourges every son whom He receives. To hear and become aware of His
correction, I must stay close to Him and to the wise counsel of those who He has
assigned to my life, such as, spiritual leaders at the church.

When I stay close to God by studying His Word, keeping fellowship with the body and
following through with obedience to His Word, then and only then am I spiritual. When
I say yes to God and no to sin (my flesh) is when the victorious life is evident; hey, real
life begins. Then I have a testimony for Your Glory, Lord. “Lord, did you see that? I
actually proved You; I did it! (Only with Your help) I was obedient to Your Word; I said
“No” to what You hate. Thank You God for Your strength which is mighty, even perfect
in all of my weakness” (II Cor 12:9).

Prayer:  Lord, I thank You for Your Word which gives light and the opportunity to experience real life! I am so very grateful that You love me to life…that you include me in Your plan. It is
just a wonder that You would use a wretch like me who, in the flesh, never wants to do
the right thing; who never wants to take on the responsibility of walking as Your
representative in this world. I’m just so very grateful, Lord!! Thank You for arranging
accountability in and through those spiritual leaders who minister to my life. You give
great care, Oh Lord, and I just want to say thank You! In Jesus’ Name-Amen

(by Lisa Williams)