Living a More Spiritual Life

Life is sometimes a struggle. In the last few months I have really had problems focusing on living a more spiritual life. It seems the more I try, the more difficult it becomes. I think the devil really works on me by feeding me the line that I am alone in this struggle and by appealing to my sense of independence and pride. I know in my heart that I can’t do it alone; I also know that if I can just get out of the way, the Lord will make a way.

All of us have highs and lows. Elijah defeated Ahab and the priests of Baal one day and ran for his life – deathly afraid, the next. It happens to us all and the devil works to isolate us from Christian friends and even from Jesus. How can we combat the spiritual ‘mully-grubs’? How canwe ‘keep on’ when it looks like everything is against us? How can we reclaim our enthusiasm and excitement for the Christian walk? Many of us make resolutions at this time of year.

It’s a good time to do that kind of thing because we have a whole new year ahead of us, in some ways a clean slate. Changes are easier when that kind of stimulation is available. In thinking about the spiritual struggle for our church family, below are four resolutions which willhelp us to get out of spiritual ruts and to a more active and involved life in Christ.

1) Resolve in 2008 to read and study the scriptures
Set aside a time each day – read, meditate and think about how the message applies specifically to your life at the present time.

2) Resolve in 2008 to spend quality time in prayer
Think about your weaknesses, then talk to the Lord about them. Spend time giving Him the glory and praise for what He is doing in your life. Pray for courage to take advantage of opportunities.

3) Resolve in 2008 to spend time with your Christian
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Do not neglect assembly! Get involved in Sunday School! Make it a point to get involved with brothers and sisters through fellowships, Life Groups, midweek Bible Study and personal invitations to others to do things together. Find a way to serve and do it! Make sure your best friends are an influence for Christ and for good in your life.

4) Resolve in 2008 to share your faith
We have been challenged to ask acquaintances if they would like to study the Bible. That may be all it takes to enable a person we know or love to begin their walk with God. Lord, give us courage! Let’s make 2008 a year in which our resolutions carry through for life. If we will endeavor to lean on one another and on God we can see Him work through us to do His will. Let’s all endeavor to lift one another up and to hold one another accountable for a closer walk with God. Then God will be glorified through us!