I’m sorry for the silence. For some reason I have had writers block the past few weeks.
This week I want to discuss briefly the sanctification process. This is typically the long, slow, lifelong process of being molded into the image of Christ . Some of us progress faster than others, there is no shame as long as the process is in a forward direction.. Don’t compare yourselves to others or let anybody intimidate you into doing things you are not called to do. The “thou shalts” of church people or of a controlling elder or pastor is typical “people stuff”, legalism in the form of religion. We need to be wary and gain discernment as we struggle during our walk.
On the other hand, let us revisit James again:
James 2: 17
"In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." NIV
James is not saying if you are not working you are not saved. This is instead a plea to put your faith in motion. You shouldn’t just sit on your faith.
As you progress in your sanctification process you will know what you should be doing to help forward the Gospel message. Don’t let anybody pressure you with statements like “ you really need to stretch yourself”, or “ If you are comfortable you are not progressing”, and the worst is, “what do you mean you won’t do …..?” “Are you truly saved?”. Yep, that is the spirit of Pharisee in all it’s gory glory when you are confronted with this kind of garbage.
I also covered Sanctification a little bit last year: Please see the blog entries here:
http://thealterofgod.blogspot.com/2010/06/my-sanctification-walk-sound-familiar.html
http://thealterofgod.blogspot.com/2010/06/sanctification-walk-part-ii.html
Remember this, while the road may be narrow, it is not impossible. When you go through trials don’t let the Pharisees question your salvation. Instead remember the words of Jesus:
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." NIV
Yes, we will have trouble. Sorry, God is all about building character, the Bible is full of examples. So, don’t let anybody question your salvation when you have problems or struggle, instead take heart in knowledge that Christ has overcome the world.
Until the next time, may the LORD Bless us and keep us, in Jesus name I pray.
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