The Battle for Christlikeness

Reading: Romans 7:14-25; Galatians 5:16-26

Devotional: The Israelites had to wage war to enter their promised rest. Similarly, the Christian life requires battle, not against other people, but against your own flesh. Becoming like Jesus is war. The sword of God's Word doesn't fight others; it cuts away everything in us that doesn't reflect Christ. This battle isn't easy, and no one should tell you otherwise. You must decide: are you ready to war against everything in you that demands its own way? The rest God promises, the Sabbath peace described in Hebrews 4, comes after victory over the flesh. But take courage: Christ has already won, and His Spirit empowers you to conquer.

Reflection: What specific area of your flesh is God calling you to battle today?