Shocking

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Because the carnal mind is enmity (deep-seated dislike or ill will) against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:6-8

It’s a little shocking to realize that I’m not the Christian I thought I was.  I often jokingly said that mine has been a long, hard fought battle because I have fought God long and hard about everything.  Sad to say, it’s true (Ugh—picture head banging desk).

Last night I was listening to an old Copeland teaching called ‘Lessons from Daniel’ and it really brought home the definition of a carnal Christian.  Basically, it is someone who puts their thoughts, their beliefs and how they feel above the word of God. 

Look at the phrase ‘an old sinner saved by grace’.  I was an old sinner but once I received Jesus as my Savior, according to the Book, old things passed away and I became a new creature (2 Corinthians 5:17).  So, to call myself an old sinner now would be at enmity with God’s word and therefore God, wouldn’t it?

Now some of my mainstays and what the Bible says about it:

I don’t know enough:

If any man lacks wisdom, let him ask…James 1:5.

He will guide you into all truth…John 16:13

I don’t have enough:

He has already given us all things that pertain to life…2 Peter 1:3

He will supply all my needs…Philippians 4:19

I’m not good enough:

He that is least…is greater…Luke 7:28

These signs shall follow them that believe…Mark 16:17

Just in myself, all my old mainstays are true.  But, I’m not just in myself.  I am now ‘in Christ Jesus’ (1 Corinthians 1:30).  So, what the Book says about me trumps my thoughts, beliefs and feelings.

So, am I ready to quit being at enmity with God? Definitely.  Will it be automatic? No.  But, with the Holy Spirit to tap me on the shoulder when I fall back into old habits, it will be done.


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