Romans 8:12-18
12.
Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation--but it is not to the sinful nature, to live according to it.
13.
For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live,
14.
because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.
15.
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, ""Abba," Father."
16.
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
17.
Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
0.
Future Glory
18.
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
We can't be committed to both Christ and the world at the same time. Jesus says so. We must choose either one and let go of the other.
A friend puts this line "It is easier to carry the cross than dragging it" as her Yahoo Messenger status. It certainly seems easier to take up the Cross and follow Jesus rather than living a life of instant pleasures which will end with regrets, bitterness and sorrow later on.
It is an intentional choice: how do we live our life and for whom(or what) we want to live for. If we choose to follow Jesus, there is something we must do, that is, to die daily to ourselves (Luke 9:23-24). This means we are to let go of all our selfish desires, ambitions and goals. Our lives are no longer our own. Instead we are to do things that pleased God.
If we continue to trust in Jesus and walk with Him, not only will He gives us a victorious life on Earth, we will also have our rewards in Heaven; they are treasures that "moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:20)
Reminder: Living the Christian life is never easy, but with Christ's help, we will live a victorious and Spirit-filled life.
Is there any life so blessed
As one lived for Christ alone,
When the heart from self is emptied,
And instead hecomes His throne? ---Anon
