I have a terrible habit. I lose focus when I miss a target. Instead of getting up and working at my goals right away, I wallow in my failure and waste valuable time and energy.
Sometimes we do this in our spiritual lives as well. When we make a mistake, we dwell in negativity and go back to our old habits before seeking God.
We choose alcohol, sex, and food to release our stress instead of praying. We abuse our bodies instead of crying out to Jesus. This behaviour is unproductive.
I encourage everyone to seek God always and schedule a time for prayer and reading the Bible. Regular conversations with God keep our mind focused. We will still have bumps on the road for sure, but talking to God ensures we continue with our journey.
Here are the verses for this devotional story:
Romans 1:22-24
22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles.
24 Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another.
I talked about idolatry in the previous article. So, I will not talk about it here. Please read: The Need for God and the Concept of Idolatry
My key takeaway from the verses is that we will be slaves to our desires, or slaves to our flesh if we do not seek God first.
Galatians 5:19-21
New International Version
19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.
I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
The verses above list down the sins that are innate within us. These are sins rooted in our fleshy desires. These natural urges will reign over us if we take our relationship with Jesus lightly.
What do we need to do to avoid becoming slaves of the flesh?
1. God Should Be First
Matthew 6:33
English Standard Version
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Jesus should be the first thing in our minds when we wake up. This mindset could mean different things, and it will depend on what God wants you to do.
It is all about fulfilling God's purpose for you. Some would pray for hours, and others will live healthily. Again, everyone's style of worship is different.
2. Seek God Wholeheartedly
Jeremiah 29:13
English Standard Version
13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.
I think the best way to understand this concept is by listening to champions.
Take Michael Jordan, for example. He would say that he will do anything to win, anything. If practising for 6 hours a day means winning, then he will do that.
Seeking Jesus should be like that. We need to give it our all. We should be willing to do anything for Jesus.
Jesus is all about mercy and grace, but we will not discuss that now. Let us focus on having the right attitude when seeking Jesus. God will judge us based on what we have done come judgment day, so our efforts are not in vain.
3. We Must Seek God By Faith
Hebrews 11:6
English Standard Version
6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Seeking Jesus means elevating your belief system. It involves combining hope with actions.
When you believe that Jesus wants you to sing for Him, practice singing, take lessons. Work hard. Align your behaviour and actions to your hope.
Seeking Jesus is also about believing God's love. Remember, when you fail, He is not going to condemn you.
Jesus will lift you and empower you to finish the job.
Romans 10:4
King James Version (KJV)
4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.
I urge everyone to do our best in seeking Jesus all the time.
I also encourage everyone to be gracious to yourselves when you make mistakes.
All of us should be gracious to others when they fail. All of us sin and need Jesus. We are the same.
Let us Sum It Up
When Jesus is not the first in our lives, something will replace Him. That will lead to severe consequences.
Seek Jesus with all your heart and strength to stay in the right path.
If you make a mistake, do not be too hard on yourself. Jesus has your back.
Prayer of Salvation
Friend, if you want to know Jesus, but you are unsure of your standing in faith, say this prayer. God sees your heart, so say the words with conviction and faith.
"Father, I am a sinner. Forgive my sins. I believe that Jesus died on the cross so I could live fully on earth and in heaven. Change my heart and mind according to your will. This I pray, in the mighty Name of Jesus, amen."
Friend, if you prayed this prayer in faith, I believe you have set things right with God.
If you want to grow in faith, find a Bible-based church. You can also reach out to me through my social media platforms and this website, www.high3r.com. I would love to hear from you.
Thank you for reading this devotional story, and I pray that it encouraged and empowered you in your walk with Christ. Please read other devotional stories on the website.
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