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14 January 2008
Word on the Web
Philippians 3 v 17-21
Brothers and sisters, all of you should try to follow my example and to copy those who live the way we showed you. Many people live like enemies of the cross of Christ. I have often told you about them, and it makes me cry to tell you about them now. In the end, they will be destroyed. They do whatever their bodies want, they are proud of their shameful acts, and they think only about earthly things. But our homeland is in heaven, and we are waiting for our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven. By his power to rule all things, he will change our simple bodies and make them like his own glorious body.
The battle rages. Part of me wants a body which is fit, athletic, healthy and slim. But another part of me wants to eat biscuits, cakes, chocolate and all the rest, regardless of the consequences. I genuinely want both - but can only have one or the other.
The pull of the pleasures of this world are incredibly strong, let's be up front about that. Why else would we hear stories again and again of mature Christians who "fall into sin", seduced by the pull of sex, power or money, or who are overwhelmed by the power of addictions?
But let us not fool ourselves into believing that we are helpless, powerless victims. We have decisions and choices to make - for better or for worse. When we make good choices - praise God - he's made up and we are blessed. And when we mess up - praise God - there is a way of confession, repentance and restoration open to us.
The world or God's kingdom, instant gratification or eternal joy? The choice is ours.
Thank you Jesus that you understand the power of temptation - and that by the power of your Holy Spirit you give us strength to stand. Give us wisdom, courage and determination to choose well. Amen
Written by Phil Clark
Word on the Web
Philippians 3 v 17-21
Brothers and sisters, all of you should try to follow my example and to copy those who live the way we showed you. Many people live like enemies of the cross of Christ. I have often told you about them, and it makes me cry to tell you about them now. In the end, they will be destroyed. They do whatever their bodies want, they are proud of their shameful acts, and they think only about earthly things. But our homeland is in heaven, and we are waiting for our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven. By his power to rule all things, he will change our simple bodies and make them like his own glorious body.
The battle rages. Part of me wants a body which is fit, athletic, healthy and slim. But another part of me wants to eat biscuits, cakes, chocolate and all the rest, regardless of the consequences. I genuinely want both - but can only have one or the other.
The pull of the pleasures of this world are incredibly strong, let's be up front about that. Why else would we hear stories again and again of mature Christians who "fall into sin", seduced by the pull of sex, power or money, or who are overwhelmed by the power of addictions?
But let us not fool ourselves into believing that we are helpless, powerless victims. We have decisions and choices to make - for better or for worse. When we make good choices - praise God - he's made up and we are blessed. And when we mess up - praise God - there is a way of confession, repentance and restoration open to us.
The world or God's kingdom, instant gratification or eternal joy? The choice is ours.
Thank you Jesus that you understand the power of temptation - and that by the power of your Holy Spirit you give us strength to stand. Give us wisdom, courage and determination to choose well. Amen
Written by Phil Clark
