A Fresh Start: Embracing God’s Power
As we step into a new year, we’re given a clean slate, a chance to start anew. Despite our best intentions, some resolutions may have already fallen by the wayside. Yet, we’re drawn to the promise of God’s grace, which not only forgives but also empowers us to live a life guided by the Spirit.
The Whisper of the Spirit
But can we truly break free from our old patterns and habits? The Spirit whispers, “This is the way; walk in it.” We hear the call, we see the path unfolding before us, but our past experiences and the challenges of life make us hesitant. We respond with conditions: “I’ll follow, but…” “I’ll obey, however…” “I’ll speak, except…”
Lessons from the Old Testament
The Old Testament is filled with stories of individuals who lived with similar conditions. They did what was right in God’s eyes, but with exceptions. Solomon, for instance, walked according to his father David’s instructions, except he offered sacrifices and burned incense on the high places (1 Kings 3:3). He did what was right, but not wholeheartedly (2 Chronicles 25:2).
A High Standard
We often feel that God’s expectations are too high, that no one can attain and maintain such a life. And that’s exactly what God wants to hear. The only One who lived a life without conditions was Jesus, and He promises to give us the power to present ourselves as living sacrifices, ready and willing to experience all that He has in store for us.
Embracing God’s Power
As we begin this new year, let’s surrender our buts, excepts, and howevers to God. Let’s embrace His power, which promises to transform us from the inside out. With Jesus living within us, we can walk in the way He has laid out before us, without conditions, without exceptions. We can start anew, empowered by His Spirit, and live a life that honors Him.
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