Words of Encouragement
January - 02 - 2005
We each surrendered our heart to God and our old self was crucified with Christ when we became Christians (cf. Rom. 6:6). Jesus reminds us that this surrender is something each of us should do daily (cf. Luke 9:23). We need to put the old sinful life aside every day and choose to live for Jesus in response to God's grace. As we begin this new year, let's make it our spiritual habit to consciously offer ourselves to the lordship of Jesus each day.
Let us read Ephesians 4:20-24.
20 But you have not so learned Christ,
21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus:
22 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts,
23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,
24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.Let us go to our heavenly Father in prayer.
Holy and Almighty LORD, our Father in heaven, we want to honor you and ignore the temptations of Satan. Please be with us through your Spirit and capture our hearts with your grace as we seek to live each day for you.
In Jesus' name we pray.
Amen.