Ephesians 3: 20-21
July 31, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 31 JULY
July 31, 2024
THE 31st OF JULY
WE MAKE THE CHOICE TO USE THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT BY APPLYING SELF-CONTROL
Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. – 1 Corinthians 9:26-27
Paul the Apostle, uses his method of thought and action by comparing himself with a runner who has knowledge of the finish line and how to get there, and a boxer whose aim is perfect.
We cannot follow Jesus Christ and the world simultaneously, since our carnal nature fights against the Spirit. In Romans 8:13, Paul explains the effects of following the flesh or the Holy Spirit: “For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” We need to choose between our enslavement to sin, and our training of our bodies to holiness. Self-discipline is to be applied when we abide by the direction of the Holy Spirit.
We need the assistance of the Holy Spirit, in all we do, and He is always ready to help us, if we ask Him to. Whenever the Spirit of God warns us that we might sin, we should stop and ask His help to not do it. The more we practice this, the easier it gets. We can do all things only through the strength we have in Jesus Christ.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Dear Lord, help me never to forget that my aim is towards living for You inorder to glorify Your Name. Please help me to listen to Your warnings, to overcome all temptations by doing what is correct in Your sight. I need Your assistance every step of the way, to subdue my carnal nature and control the deeds of the body, so that I may live according to Your Will. Thank You Lord that only in You can I find true peace, joy, and victory. In Jesus’ Holy Name I pray. Amen
