We do things to get things.

We do difficult things for the promise of being rewarded with something good.

Sometimes the reward is immediate.

Most of the time, it’s not.

What happens if we change course

before we get to claim our prize?

What if our preferred prize for obedience is not what God has in mind?

You were running this race well, Gina.

Who hindered you?

Did you think that what you once soared through by the Spirit you may now coast by in the flesh?

The battle hasn’t changed.

But your will to fight has waned.

Though you no longer see your sin through the eyes of shame, you give in more this time. You let it win.

You’re indifferent. You’re different.

In a bad way?

Depends. You’re thankful for the freedom from feeling dirty.

But if you use that freedom to freely roll around in the dirt, others can’t get clean from watching you.

My freedom isn’t for me – it’s for those still in shame.

Loving others,

Serving others,

Leading them to freedom in Christ…

That’s why I’m Free.

How do I do this? I’m still human…I want what I want…

Walk in the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Let the Spirit lead you – take His route. You’ll stay holy, stay strong, stay singing psalms and praises. You’ll bypass the byways of desire, striking a blow to your body and showing it who’s boss.

He knows the way. And don’t grow weary in doing good – for in due time, you will reap a reward.

You will.