Remember now, when we speak of “freedom” in the context of discipleship, we mean “the ability to do what you ought, not the right to do what you want.” We all know we ought to do certain things that we do not. A relationship with Christ makes changing all that possible.
“The key to overcoming temptation is loving God. The more you love God, the less you will be tempted by sin.” says Peter – No, not that Peter, the Peter in the dialogue which prefaces each chapter of the First Steps On-on-One Discipleship handbook (see p. 24).
But how does that work? How does loving God help me to stop swearing, stop peeking at porn, or start praying more? How do I love God anyway? I can’t even see Him!
Well let’s scale this whole thing back a bit to something we may understand more readily. How about this: boy meets girl. There’s a pretty basic plot line for any story. Boy meets girl… boy likes girl…. girl likes art museums…. boy takes an interest in art…. girl dislikes moustaches… boy shaves his off… Maybe the girl decides to shed a few pounds, do up her hair in the more alluring style, or invest in a new dress.
Things neither had motivation or desire to do previously they now tackle with gusto! Why? They want to please the one they love. Love accomplishes what willpower alone can never do.
How did they do it? They spent time together. They found out what pleased the other, they made such things their chief interest and priority also, then… they went out and did that thing, or stopped doing that other thing. The happiness of their beloved became more cherished than their own happiness. Yet, by living for the happiness of the other they found a greater joy beyond themselves.
It’s the same with God. “Find out what pleases the Lord,” writes Paul. “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness…” (Eph. 5:10,11). ” Rejoice always, pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5:16,17)
Want more freedom to do what you ought? Develop Your Love relationship with Jesus Christ. Remember, “The key to overcoming temptation is loving God. The more you love God, the less you will be tempted by sin.”
Press on…
Are you interested in being discipled one-on-one in the fundamentals of new life in Christ?
Or, perhaps you would you like to know how to begin this journey and take the very first of the First Steps by turning from your current path and committing your path to Christ? — Use the Contact page and we’ll get you started.
thebrokenrunner 