Spiritual Growth

A Brand Snatched from the Fire

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We often do not fail through ignorance, but through choice. We know what we should not do, and yet for a moment it is pleasurable, and we do it anyway. What follows is not indifference but misery — regret, shame, and the terrible feeling that we are hypocrites.
Zechariah’s vision of Joshua the high priest, clothed in filthy garments while the accuser stands beside him, speaks directly into this place. God does not deny the filth, but He silences the accuser and clothes Joshua anew. The verdict comes before the instruction. Grace comes before change. And because of that, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

How To Be Filled With The Holy Spirit

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Temptation is not a sign of weakness but the training ground of strength. When Jesus faced the devil in the wilderness, He was not tempted three times only, but continually for forty days — and every victory of obedience enlarged the Spirit’s power within Him. The same pattern holds for us. Each temptation the Lord allows is permitted for our strengthening, as a soldier’s trials forge discipline and courage. When we resist, the Holy Spirit occupies the ground we refuse to yield, until the old struggle between flesh and spirit gives way to a new reality — Christ reigning within, and His power resting upon us.

Under a New Jurisdiction: Reading Romans 6–8 Without Contradiction

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Many stumble over what appear to be contradictions in Romans 6–8, but Paul is not confused. In Christ we are acquitted from sin’s penalty, still battle its power, and await freedom from its presence. Even holiness itself is Christ’s gift, for in Him we are already holy in God’s sight.

Walking in the Power of God

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An Exchange With a Co-Heir in Christ Now here are some thoughts for the day! This is the record of an exchange with my dear friend and brother in Christ, David. You are right, the gospel is about future glory – but not entirely is it? Is there nothing of it in our present lives? … Read more