i.l.f.m. #2

This is my second posting of some personal "ah-ha" moments that I recently discovered, as mentioned in the previous posting. (A better description for why this is posted.) I was thinking about my last post and thought that my responses may not make sense entirely, since I chose not to post what I was responding to. If it becomes a problem, I can post those at a later date, if there is a need. I have no specific order for what I am choosing to post, just what I like at the moment :).

Here goes #2!

The verse the book focused on was:
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Galations 5:24

Be Aware of Sinful Tendencies

I believe sinful tendencies can also be described as "weaknesses". I believe people naturally related the thought of Sinful Tendencies to outward, visible actions: cheating, lying, violence, ect. Reflecting personally, my Sinful Tendencies, or weaknesses as I'll now refer, can be hidden behind a social curtain, such as doubt, lacking in trust, and confidence. The visible sins seem to have effects, also visible, on relationships, social freedom, imprisonment. Buried weaknesses can also have serious consequences. Although they may also indirectly affect others, the effect lies mainly with the accused.  It destroys from the inside out.  Burning away natural gifts and abilities given to us from God, possibly preventing future opportunities and growth.

Awareness in this matter is crucial. Knowing your weaknesses makes it possible to acknowledge when they emerge and possibly why. It can be extremely difficult to know what you are weak in. It can also create other weaknesses, allowing those reminders to surface too often.  We must keep God on call, to keep a healthy balance.

After all of this, I thank God for keeping me humble through my weaknesses. Please help me utilize them to benefit my growth and positively affect those I come into contact with.

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I can already feel myself being stretched by posting these. I feel my insecurities surfacing... "What if people this what I have to write is stupid, or trivial, or poorly written." Then I remind myself how I've already felt that putting myself "out there" has been a wonderful, uncomfortable feeling and that it can at least provide for an enjoyable read for someone else.. or maybe just a read, if anything else! :)

This is simply my way of doing something I find "uncomfortable" in order to open my introverted self to allow God to do more with me in the future. Baby Steps! You have to start somewhere.... Where is your first step directed?