As we think about being a living sacrifice unto God, recall dear ladies: “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Phil. 2:13) As we mature in our walk, moving from a babe in Christ to an adult believer, we will develop a love-driven heart. A sacrificial mindset naturally puts self aside to focus on the other’s spiritual needs. This displaces fleshly bombardments to have Christ’s mind. To “walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmellng savour.” (Eph. 5:2) A verse that provides additional clarity is an exhortation to acquire this heart desire: “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children.” (Ephesians 5:1)
Do you desire to attain and live the mind of Christ in whatever life situation you find yourself? It can become a part of how you view life, problems, and especially affect how you see yourself as a unique and important part of the Body. We are intimately connected and a member perfectly created by God for a purpose. As we see ourselves valued and vital to the whole as God sees us, we also see that we are no better than others, and have similar strongholds and challenges, but also have received a multitude of provisions through Christ. As we appreciate these more and more and realize God’s love for us and what He has and is doing for us through Christ, we become aware of His deep love for others. We are to grow to love them as ourselves and finally, above ourselves.
To Do: Purpose to regularly pray for yourself and others, read the Word, study, meditate, and prepare your heart to apply God’s love in faith. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” (Colossians 3:23) Regularly reflect upon your attitude and what you are thinking and doing, and why. Assess the things that need to be adjusted and prayerfully walk them out. Once these things are in place, which is spiritual self-care, you will be prepared for your day and the unexpected circumstances that pop up from time to time. Verses will often come to mind from your quiet time. Consider discussing this with your husband and ask for his suggestions. Ideally, you can agree to do this together and regularly hold each other accountable, encouraging one another.
Beautiful sister! So grounding and edifying!
"...but also have received a multitude of provisions through Christ. As we appreciate these more and more and realize God’s love for us and what He has and is doing for us through Christ"
I am realizing how important this point of our coming to know the multitude of our provisions through Christ truly is! To be a horse with blinders on that only allows myself to have all expectation placed/absolutely fixed upon the Cross of Calvary's Love as my provision is the aim of my heart.
Paul's perfect way of teaching lays this groundwork first for us to know and remind ourselves of before being successful in making our choices in our loving others as we love ourselves. May the power of the truth in the scriptures always be my choice-maker and my emotions know their place in going along with what the Spirit is ruling (whether those emotions be kicking and screaming or joyfully experiencing how the Spirit of love desires to walk!)