Tag: Christian

The Danger of Fleshly Desires

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DAVID INGRAM

Living by the flesh is dangerous. It leads to spiritual death, even though it may seem appealing or comforting at first. The flesh promises satisfaction but delivers destruction. To live by the flesh is to follow a blind guide that will never lead to heaven.

Christ offers a better way—He has given us His Spirit to guide us to eternal life. The Holy Spirit is the believer’s constant companion, pointing them toward truth and life in Christ. This guidance leads not only to heaven but to a life of purpose and peace on earth, free from the bondage of sin.

Many people mistakenly believe that only the worst kinds of sins are evidence of living by the flesh. However, sins like anger, pride, and greed—often overlooked—are just as dangerous. These too reveal a heart that is not fully surrendered to the Spirit. A life led by these desires shows a person who is still controlled by the flesh, no matter how respectable they may appear.

Christians are called to examine their hearts, making sure that they are not deceived by these more subtle sins. We must ensure that we are truly walking by the Spirit, rejecting all forms of fleshly living.

The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit

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DAVID INGRAM

Living by the Spirit is the core of the Christian life, as those who belong to Christ are no longer under condemnation. When a person is saved, their life transforms—they no longer follow the flesh but are guided by the Holy Spirit. The gospel offers two foundational truths: freedom from condemnation and a life led by the Spirit. These are not merely doctrinal points but are meant to fuel a holy life.

The distinction between living by the flesh and by the Spirit goes back to creation. Initially, the soul was meant to guide the body, but when sin entered, this order was reversed. Humans became driven by their bodily desires—an existence shaped by the flesh rather than the Spirit. Those who are not saved by Christ continue in this state, bound by the desires of the flesh.

But there’s hope. When someone is regenerated by the Holy Spirit, the order is restored. The soul regains its authority over the body, and a person can live according to God’s Spirit. Christ offers this restoration, enabling believers to live a life free from the power of sin. This transformation is central to Christian life and testimony.

Therefore, living by the Spirit is not an optional extra for believers. It’s the sign of their freedom from condemnation and their connection to God’s Spirit. Christians are called to reject the ways of the flesh and embrace this new life that Christ has made possible.

‘Almost’ Christian vs. True Christian: Key Differences

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

In Acts 26:28, King Agrippa says, “Almost you persuade me to be a Christian.” Many people have come close to becoming Christians but stop short. However, being “almost” Christian isn’t enough in God’s eyes. It’s important to understand what it means to be “almost” Christian and what it means to be a true Christian.

Being “almost” Christian means living with good morals, honesty, and kindness, like non-Christians who follow basic moral rules. You don’t lie, steal, hurt others, or break promises. You might even go to church, pray, and act religiously. But without true faith and love for God and others, you’re still just “almost” Christian.

To be a true Christian, you must love God with all your heart and soul, and love others as yourself. True Christianity also involves faith in Jesus, which changes how you live, fills you with love, and gives you peace and joy. True faith leads you to fully trust in God and live for Him.

In short, being “almost” Christian is not enough. True Christians have love for God and others, and live by faith.

A thought for Tuesday: Expanding the Mind Through God

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

Many people believe that studying God’s creation and man’s actions within His creation (science, history, or philosophy) can expand the mind. While these subjects are valuable, nothing broadens our understanding more than studying God. When we focus on who God is, we stretch our minds beyond the limits of earthly knowledge and begin to grasp the infinite.

This kind of study is different from any other. It challenges us to think deeply, question our assumptions, and seek truth in a way that nothing else can. The more we learn about God, the more our minds are expanded and our perspectives are broadened. We start to see the world in a new light, understanding that there is more to life than what we can see or touch.

Studying God also has a profound impact on our lives. It changes the way we think, the way we live, and the way we interact with others. As our understanding of God grows, so does our love for Him and for the people around us. We become more compassionate, more patient, and more willing to serve others, reflecting the character of God in our daily lives.

In a world where knowledge is often equated with power, the study of God offers something far greater—wisdom. This wisdom doesn’t just come from knowing facts or theories; it comes from knowing God Himself. It’s a wisdom that guides us, shapes us, and ultimately leads us to live lives that honor and glorify Him.

Romans 11:33 (NIV,) says, “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” This verse highlights the infinite nature of God’s wisdom, reinforcing the concept that studying God stretches our minds beyond earthly limits.

A thought for Monday: The Humbling Power of Knowing God

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TEXAS GOSPEL CANADA STAFF

Nothing humbles us more than thinking about God. When we reflect on His greatness and majesty, we can’t help but see how small we are in comparison. God’s infinite nature shows us just how limited our understanding is, and this realization brings us to our knees in humility.

This humility is essential for our spiritual growth. It reminds us that we are not the center of the universe—God is. It keeps us from becoming arrogant or self-centered, helping us stay grounded in the truth of who God is and who we are. Humility opens the door to a deeper relationship with God because it allows us to approach Him with the respect and reverence He deserves.

When we recognize our own smallness in the face of God’s greatness, we also become more grateful for His grace and love. Despite our limitations, God chooses to reveal Himself to us and invite us into a relationship with Him. This humbling truth should fill our hearts with gratitude and a desire to know Him more.

The more we think about God, the more we grow in wisdom and understanding. This wisdom doesn’t come from our own knowledge or abilities, but from acknowledging God’s greatness and our need for Him. In this way, humility becomes the foundation for true spiritual growth and maturity.

Jeremiah 9:23-24 emphasizes the supreme value of knowing and understanding God. It says, “This is what the Lord says: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the Lord.”