Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: Galatians 5:16–21
Scripture Quote: For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do--this I keep on doing.
Romans 7:18-19 (NIV)
We face a constant battle in our spirit and conscience - If we allow fleshly appetites alone to prevail, Satan has his way with us and we are weakened in our walk with the Spirit of God. Though all of humanity has suffered terribly by the Fall, there is still within the Christian a large measure of Christ's supernatural light. We have within us the wisdom, power and goodness of the Most High. Fallen as man is, we still possess the power to reach very high cultivation and improvement. But the fallen nature hates submission to God and revolts against the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Our carnal minds will not submit to the law of God.
We must beat down that sinful nature, return to the the Holy Spirit which we have grieved, and offer repentant hearts to the Savior. Jesus understands our battle with the flesh. He will forgive our sin when our will is determined to return to obedience to God's truth and sovereignty. Take solace in the fact that we know who wins this battle in the end - He will intercede for us as we trust in Him.
Today’s meditation: Jesus dwells within us. He is the conqueror.
Memory Verse: I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. Psalms 119:176 (NIV)