Colossians 1:22-23 But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel.
Environmental stresses such as drought, excessive water, extreme temperatures or pest infections can sabotage the steady growth of plants and trees and could eventually kill it. Similarly, the steady growth of faith will be destroyed by environmental pressures or internal stress that is not overcome. Self-centeredness, condemnation and shame would sabotage “Steady Faith”.
The Apostle Paul writing to the church of Colossians reminded them about their redemption through the broken body of Christ Jesus. We enter the throne room of God boldly without blemish and free from accusation only because of the redeeming blood of Jesus. It is important to remind ourselves about the priceless precious gift of salvation through the cross and sanctification through His Word. Failing which, the accuser, the devil will mount accusations and drown us in guilt, shame and condemnation.
The redemption through Christ’s physical body on the cross is like going through a carwash. We go in dirty and come out spotless and sparkling. This is why the first step in prayer is at the altar of sacrifice where we lay our bodies as a living sacrifice to be renewed and refreshed in Him.
Guilt, shame and stigma are like pest infection – soul disease that kills our faith. The pest treatment to trees includes pruning, cleaning and applying organic treatment such as Neem oil or garlic spray. Likewise, prune away self-demeaning thoughts by repeating God’s Word. Renew your mind. Submit and surrender to the anointing of the Holy Spirit and nurtures steady growth of faith.
Steady Faith:
- Self-Destruction: Self-degrading thoughts are not your thoughts – they are pests from hell that are inflicted to kill your faith. Drive out self-destructive thoughts with God’s Word, “The Divine Pesticide”.
- Shame: Shame and self-blame are faith assassins. See yourself through the eyes of Jesus.
- Stigma: Replace stigmatizing thoughts with the promises, “instead of shame I will receive a double portion honour” (Isaiah 61:7).
God’s Word is the pesticide that kills the pests of shame and stigma.
Prayer: Dearest Jesus, I will praise you for delivering me from guilt and shame. Amen.
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