STANDING OUT IN THE CROWD

“Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, 

arm yourselves also with the same attitude, 

because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin.

As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life 

for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

For you have spent enough time in the past 

doing what pagans choose to do –

living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, 

carousing and detestable idolatry.

They think it strange that you do not plunge with them 

into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.

But they will have to give account to him 

who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

For this is the reason the gospel was preached 

even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged 

according to men in regard to the body, 

but live according to God in regard to the spirit.”

1 Peter 4:1-6

thĕlēma²³⁰⁷ – a determination (prop. the thing), i.e. (act.) choice (spec. purpose, decree; abstr. volition) or (pass.) inclination: - desire, pleasure , will.

            Jesus has given us power over whatever sin ensnares us. We have the ability to choose God’s will over evil or over less than best desires. We need to submit daily to the Father and turn from anything that would distract us from God’s path. Our first prayer in the morning should ask the Lord to lead us into activities that will be pleasing in his sight and further his kingdom.

           

Father, help me to take my own advice and submit to your guidance daily. Thank you for giving me power over sin through your indwelling Holy Spirit.