Wanting to do the right thing

There are things in life
that you to learn to enjoy
that you learn to think are acceptable
that you even learn to think are desirable
and from time to time
you wonder why
these acceptable,
enjoyable,
desirable things
seem to be messing up your life.

When the decision is made
to live a life
that is pleasing to God
casting off the old ways
can feel wonderful.
You know you are starting
a new journey.
You know you are starting
a new life.

The problem is
that just because God says
"I don't like that"
it doesn't flip a switch
in your brain
to make you hate
the things you used to love.

So as time goes by
and temptations arise
the new creation that you are
will not automatically
reject the old.
That comes with practice
and vigilance
and prayers of protection
for your mind and body.

Stay in the word.
Keep your mind on right things.
Keep company with those who will not lead you into temptation.
Pray that His will becomes yours.
And know that wanting to do the right thing
and choosing to do the right thing
is not the same as
hating the things of the past.

And while that may come with time
making the choice to do the "right" thing
in the face of tempation
is also learned.
So you can't be discouraged
when you are tempted
or when you catch yourself
thinking about the wrong things.
God sees the progress you have made
since you first turned your life around.

You are going to be okay.
You are going to succeed.
You can do this.
He wouldn't ask you to do it if you couldn't.
He just wants you to rely on Him.

And know that the "you" I am talking to here, might be you... but really, it is me.

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4: 14-16

 

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philipians 4:8