clothe yourself properly
"Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy." Ephesians 4:21-24
I absolutely love getting new running shoes. I love the way they look, feel and cushion my feet with their pristine padding. My new ones arrived yesterday in the mail and I got giddy thinking about this morning's run. I was surely not disappointed. The morning temperatures were in the upper 50s, unseasonable for July. As I watched the sun rise, thanking God for this most glorious day, the ability to run and my new shoes, I looked down to notice that they had already gotten dirty. That sure didn't take long I thought. Once they were removed from the safety and protection of their box, they would now pick up bits and pieces of road, dirt and debris along whatever route I would take them on. Aren't we the same? The longer we are in the world, the more we pick up the the dirt and debris of the places we've been, the people we associate with and the things we watch. Unlike shoes, thank God, we have the decision where, when and with who we will journey. But instead of taking on the characteristics of the world, we are to be set apart, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2. Staying "righteous and holy" is a decision that we must make every day. You put on shoes every day right? Well the bible tells us that we must put on Christ every day just as we would a garment of clothes, "But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.". You wouldn't leave your house naked would you? You need your clothes to protect you from the cold, heat, wind and all those other things that could harm your flesh. Then why would you leave your house without putting on Christ? Without Him, you have nothing to protect your heart, mind and spirit.
Make a decision every day to take as much care dressing for your spiritual protection as you do your physical. It's so great to put on new things. Remember to put on your "new nature" daily so you can run your race to the best of your ability.
Heavenly Father, thank your for your lovingkindness and compassion that is new every morning. I pray that we put on Christ every day so that we can know what is good and acceptable to You. May we live every day to serve You and stay set apart from the world, being an example to others that they would come to know and serve You. In Your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.
Happy running!!!
Jesus I stand for You, no matter what You lead me through-Tree 63
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