Vital signs-Tuesday,September 1st, 2020

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:1-3‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Life is full of things to chase. Money, fame, sex. Things that will fill you for a moment, but never satisfy. When I reflect back on my own life and the former pursuit of those things, I realize I was living for the things of the flesh.

But that’s not the end of the story. God called me, woke me and gave me a new purpose. He gives us something to chase that will always fulfill, always satisfy and never fail, Him.

In Romans 8, the Scriptures explain that a mind focused on flesh leads to death, but a mind focused on what the Spirit desires, gives life and peace. What is your mind focused on? What do you chase?

When your thoughts wander, do you dwell on the things of the Lord, or is it consumed by the numbers in your bank account, the new shoes you want or what people think of you? God came, took on our sinful flesh and paid the price owed for our sins. We no longer have to be controlled by the flesh, but can choose to follow the Spirit.

Prayer: Lord, expose for me the desires of my flesh for what they are, empty, and create in me a desire for the things of You.