Echoes of Truth
January 9th
Theme: She Who Thinks She Stands
When a man thinks he has got a good deal of strength, and is self-confident, you may look for his downfall. It may be years before it comes to light, but it is already commenced – D L Moody
The beginning of ascribing glory to self is when we think we have achieved by our own power. A vivid example is king Herod Agrippa who was praised to have spoken like a god. The people were mesmerised by his oratory prowess. Probably he would have excelled so well as a 21st century motivational speaker. But instant judgement fell upon him because he took the glory of being called a god to himself. He was consumed by maggots (Acts 12:21-23).
How about king Nebuchadnezzar who considered that the glory of Babylon was all by his great military prowess. He became a man-animal who lived the full life of a beast in the fields until he humbled himself (Daniel 4:25-35).
What then is the point of these two stories? If these two great men by the world’s standards could fall under God’s wrath by thinking they were somebody by their own power, how then would we face God’s wrath when we think we are who we are in Christ because of what we have laid on the table?
It will be a very serious tragedy for us as followers of Jesus to think that the length of steadfast walk we have gone in Christ has put us above others for that means we have the mind we have contributed something to our spiritual growth.
To not bring about our spiritual downfall this year, let us understand that we have by ourselves attained nothing in spiritual height or a continuously burning altar. The Holy Spirit, the seal of our redemption (Rom 8:16, 26) gives us daily strength to live a Christian life (Eph 3:16), which has nothing to do with what we have done.
We can never overemphasise that by strength shall no man prevail (1 Sam 2:9). It is not by power or might but by the Holy Spirit (Zech 4:6). Therefore, he that thinks he stands must take heed otherwise he has begun his downfall (1 Corinthians 10:12).
Backsliding is not always about falling into obvious sins and lifestyles that mark worldliness. Sometimes, it occurs within the state of mind when a believer begins to rely on his own strength thinking her own power, wisdom, effort, sacrifices, strength has made her somebody in the faith. Such minds have begun to rely on self and flesh.
It is foolish to begin in the Spirit our Christian journey and aim to finish in the flesh (Gal 3:1-3). Backsliding may not be instant but the effects would always show, just as a branch cut off from its source does not wither instantaneously.
Sisters, examine yourselves daily if you are walking in the Spirit or by your own strength ((2 Cor 13:5). Retrace your steps if you have begun to wander. Remember your first love and begin to do the former things (Rev 2:15).
The Holy Spirit is near those of a broken and contrite heart. As long as you’re ready to let go of your will and follow the will of the Holy Spirit, you will be led and strengthened by Him. The fire on your altar will keep burning when we stay in the tree and not off the tree.
Read this short article on backsliding: Learn From Solomon by Zac Ponnen
Let Us Pray:
Abba Father I thank You for another time in Your word. Have mercy and forgive me Lord for all the times I have been self confident and reliant on my own strength. I repent today, Lord of my sin of pride. From henceforth, I daily depend on You for strength. Help me to live a good Christian life in Jesus name I pray. Amen.
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