Devotionals

The Battle

by Jennifer Woodley 
12/23/19
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‘The religious hierarchy was elated over Judas’ treachery, and they agreed to give him a sum of money in exchange for Jesus’ betrayal.’ Luke 22:5 (The Passion)

Commitment to Christ comes at a cost that is too high for some. Judas sold out his faith for a few coins and we may find ourselves tempted to do the same for a cheap, fleeting thrill, a hasty promise or an experience that appeals to our vanity and pride. The lower road holds the promise of prestige, prosperity, power and self-promotion. Judas chose this road that promised prosperity yet, it never satisfied. Betrayal looks so satisfying, but lusts of the flesh result in discontentment, disappointment and eventually spiritual death.

The battle between the flesh and the Spirit does not end when we become Christians – in fact it is then that it begins. However, when the Spirit of Christ makes His home in us, we are no longer dominated by the flesh, but by the Spirit. Christ lives His life in us, so the sinful ways have no claim on us at all, and we have no future obligation to live in obedience to them.

We will be most susceptible to choose the lower road that leads to sin when we are disconnected from Christ. When we know who we are in Christ, when we rest in and rely on His love, confess our need for Him and thank Christ for His powerful presence in us, then we can turn from wrongful action without any lingering desire. Let’s remember today that sin is beneath the dignity of God’s chosen people, for we were made to house the fullness of God!