Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good

Al Gibbs (member of Gospel of Grace Church

Seeking to persuade ourselves that our flesh is becoming less active as we diligently apply ourselves to Christian fellowship, Bible reading, prayer, and the like, cannot counter-balance the humbling reality of our present state in these bodies of death. Discouraging though it may be at times, nevertheless our corruptions should not quench true Gospel hope.

The realization that my life is no longer mine does brings comfort as daily God's Spirit reminds me of this truth, especially during those thought processesing moments of the humdrum of everyday living.

It is then I am tempted to, and do run to those old programs in my mind that used to bring me comfort as I attempt to prop my self up seeking to think myself to be something when I am nothing I then only find that my present state will not allow me to glory for very long as God's Spirit reminds me that I am dead and my life is hid with God in Christ.

The realization that there is so much in me that is opposed to Christ helps me not to look within. As I realize a life of holiness is a life of faith (the heart turning daily to Christ) and the fruits of faith are genuine repentance, true humility, praising God for His infinite patience and mercy.

My conformity to Christ is completely dependent on His Spirit as I am reminded that it is Christ that works in me both to will and to do of His good pleasure. I am forced by faith to die the death that my Lord died for me and it is only then that I realize God only accepts what He provides, and that's it! Glory to God!!!!