by Natalie Lynn Borton
I am daily confronted with two choices: to live according to my whims, or to live up to the Spirit within (big-S intended there). The decision, I find, is a constant challenge.
The whims and desires of my mind and body are so strong. Why would I go running when I could stay in the air-conditioned apartment? Why would I challenge myself or go out on a limb (in work or in life) when I could stay in my sweet, safe bubble of certainty? Why would I spend time in silence with God when I could read the newest novel I downloaded on my Kindle?
Embarrassingly enough, those are often the kinds of subconscious thoughts that dictate my very human behaviors. But, of course, there’s another choice that I could make. A choice to live up to my potential—to obey the Spirit who dwells within me. In times like these, I find the best thing to do is pray this simple bit of scripture:
Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10)
How do you return to the Spirit within you when you feel you’ve wandered away?
