What inspires us? What compels the actions and direction of our life? Do we view our life as self-made or are we duly considering it in connection with the Divine Creator? Are we continuing to acknowledge the truth of our need for Divine guidance? (i.e. Isaiah 55:8-9; Jeremiah 10:23-24) Though I have found the idea stated in various ways, it has been has noted, “If Christianity was man made, it wouldn’t go against all man’s desires.” (original source unknown)
Humanity left to its own inclinations does not lead into better things. (i.e. Genesis 6:5) It is in focusing on the truth of Christ and surrendering to His Lordship that a great transition is made possible; turning us away from the inclinations of the flesh and thus from death to life!
Writing to Christians at Ephesus, Paul reminded. . .
“(1) And you were dead in the trespasses and sins (2) in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience — (3) among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. (4) But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, (5) even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ — by grace you have been saved — (6) and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, (7) so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:1-7 ESV)
What many in the world think is living the life is actually living in the death of sin and separation from God. (Isaiah 59:2) It is in Christ we have the provision of being made alive and brought from death to life. (note also John 5:24; Romans 6:13) Lifted from the fleshly and worldly, our desire is to directed to things above.
In his letter to Christians at Galatia, after contrasting the works of the flesh with the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:19-23), Paul stated. . .
“(24) And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:24 ESV)
Are we leaving the inclinations of the flesh behind by inclining our heart toward following in the truth, the hope, the transformation, and the promises in Christ? As the Scriptures are inspired of God (2 Timothy 3:16), may our life be inspired to live in accordance with His Divine Will!
Have a great day WITH OUR DESIRE INSPIRED HIGHER!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
