So here it is: because we Fear not getting what we want, we react to the stresses of life in negative, harmful ways. This reveals our old sinful self, instead of the Fruit of the Spirit that now lives within us. I call these reactions, “death symptoms” because they became a reality in our nature when sin ushered in death to this world. Things like anxiety, depression, bitterness, rage, even confusion and frustration…and the list can go on and on. The pressure from our three enemies- the devil, corrupted society and our old MMI Jezebel- tries to force us into acting these old sinful ways. But in Christ, we are New Creations, given a New Identity- with New names, one of which is Forgiven- so we don’t need to react that way, but can lean on the Holy Spirit and reveal His Fruit instead. (see Gal 5:22-23)
But the truth is we still too often act in Fear, even after we become born again. So why?!Sadly, because at the core of Fear is a lack of trust towards God. This began with both Adam and Eve as they partook of the one and only thing God told them they couldn’t have. Eve listened to the serpent, and Adam listened to his wife, and down came the good, and very good, world God had created. They did not trust God because they allowed that old serpent to place a seed of doubt into their hearts. Do we still do this too?
That is what was at the heart of my Faith crisis that I shared with you this week. I know God can do anything, but I did not trust that He would do that which I desperately wanted. And why? Because I did not believe I was worthy of it. I still felt guilty, ashamed and condemned. But again, this is NOT who we are anymore once we have been saved! The condemnation is gone, so we CAN trust God. (see 1Jn 4:18) And the more we can trust Him, does it really matter what happens around us? It will not affect nor infect us anymore. We can still Love Him and others. Still be filled with Joy. Still remain at Peace. Still act with Patience. Still show Kindness. Still display Goodness towards all. Still stay Faithful to God and our mission. Still exhibit Gentleness, especially to those who are harsh towards us. And last but certainly not least, we can still be Self-controlled. That’s the Fruit of the Spirit and that is who God says we now are and the character He longs for us to unveil to this lost and hurting world.
We will wrap up this amazing, little yet powerful book tomorrow. I really do hope you will read it, and like me, read it every now and again, so that the Son (S-O-N) can reach those deep parts of who we are, and manifest Himself through us.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
<>< Peace, Diane
