In my quiet time with the Lord this morning this thought came to me: Those of us who profess Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior have allowed this world to influence us more than we realize. This may be why there's some confusion and unrest in our minds, why we feel that we can't hear from God or that He seems distant. If this is true for you, this may be an indication that it's time to get alone with God so that He can show you how you are allowing this world to influence you. It could be agreeing to something that is contrary to God's word or rationalizing that what is wrong is right and what is right is wrong. It could be following the advice of this world and applying it to your life instead of seeking God's counsel and hearing His voice. It could be fearing the backlash of standing on the word of God in the presence of those who don't believe. It could be the deception that what this world has to offer is better than what God has freely given to us. Some of us may not realize how much we've allowed this world to influence us and how we may be abiding by its system. God is calling you and me back to Him. If this resonates in your spirit, do what needs to be done to get yourself back into alignment with who you are in Christ: seek Him, remove any distractions, get alone with God, confess any known or unknown sin, make time to spend in the word of God, be willing to renounce any influences of this world in your life, be ready to align yourself back to walking in the way of Jesus Christ.
Helpful scriptures: James 4:4-10; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Romans 5; Romans 6; Matthew 16:24-26
Have a great Wednesday. :-)
