Last week I posted a brief entry about how essential it is that our spiritual disciplines and resolutions be guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. I reminded us that it is possible to strive for holiness and serve in the power of the flesh, with the result being more sin and flesh rather than the holiness we desired.
At the end of the post I promised to follow up this subject by suggesting a few ways we can seek Spirit-empowered discipline. Here it is Friday already, and I realize I am near running the risk of an unfulfilled vow, so I better get on it (although I think this may turn into at least a couple more entries). I certainly do not claim to have mastered the Spirit-filled life-my family and close friends would have to start their own blogs merely in order to dismiss such a fabrication-but can say I have observed some attitudes and practices that have been helpful for me in my pursuit of Spirit-filled discipline. Here are a few thoughts.
1. Examine your motives. In John 5:44, Jesus gets directly to the heart of the Jewish leaders’ unbelief; He says, “How can you believe, who receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?” These Jewish leaders were unable to believe in Christ because they were in bondage to pride and self-honor. They loved the praise of men (Matthew 6:1-5). As a result, when Christ confronted them with a gospel that required them to jettison their pursuit of human praise and accolades and trust only in Him, they found it impossible: the desire for the praise of men would not allow them to trust in Christ and thus give Him all the glory for their lives and salvation. Now, although this indictment was aimed at Jewish unbelievers, there is a very helpful principle for believers here as well. If we are pursuing spiritual disciplines, or making resolutions, or serving in church out of a desire to be congratulated, admired or recognized, we will find that faith in Christ-the channel by which we receive power and strength by which to serve and discipline ourselves-will be greatly hindered. The Lord will not give His glory to another (Isaiah 48:11) and He will not dwell near the person who is seeking self-exaltation; even if it is His own child. Therefore, if we desire the blessing and presence of God upon our labors, we must pursue those labors for the glory of God, not our own reputation and honor.
Next: Three More Suggestions.
