While sitting and reading God’s word this morning I realized something. We are in a new year, a new time, a new opportunity. I had to ask myself a question. Have I really sacrificed for God? I believe as this year starts, it's time to set aside comfort and routine for something that is extraordinary and amazing. I am on a quest to do what James 1:22 says “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” It’s easy to get caught up in our own selfish routine, but I think God wants more. WE are special, we are “fearfully and wonderfully made!” I think if we look at ourselves the way God does, we have no other choice but to drastically change our lives.
I read in Luke this morning that Jesus “was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days." Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. Then the devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread.” But Jesus told him, “NO!! The Scriptures say, people do not live on bread alone.”
Jesus went forty days without food. Tempted by the devil and still was able to tell him that “People do not live on bread alone.”
I have never fasted before. Never felt led to, or felt the need to, till this year. This is a new beginning and I think it’s time in my life to give something up!!! So for the next forty days I will give up POP!!! Yes I know, wow, what a big deal. But I am seriously addicted to it. It’s not good for my body, but it tastes so incredible!!! I know some of you are laughing. I want to sacrifice something I am completely addicted to, so I might experience just a minute portion of temptation. Jesus was constantly tempted by sin, but always in His perfect way defeated it. I pray that I can do the same. I pray that I can experience Christ more vividly through this. I hope and challenge you to do the same. Pick one thing, even if it’s small and sacrifice it for God. Take it out of the equation so it no longer can separate you from Him. If there is a temptation, lean on God’s word and prayer to see you through to the end. Look at Jesus; He quoted scripture to the devil. He succeeded! So can we! He lives in us; He lives through us. I am on a quest to get closer to Him and I hope you join me. Hold me accountable, push me, pray for me, and I will do the same for you. Pray about it!! See what God says.
I love you all and I hope that you guys will consider doing this with me. I know it seems little, but sometimes it is the little things that separate us from God. Let’s take this time to grow closer to Him. Once again all of you mean the world to me. I want to experience God with you. For His glory!!!
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” -Phillipians 4:13
