SAYING “NO!” TO MYSELF

James 1:13-15

Luke 15:12-13 preaches that selfishness is the root of all sin. That, it is only when one chases his/her selfish desires that contact with sin is made.

Self-interest comes after the interest of others, which comes after the interest of God. To escape sin completely, the interest of God must be put first, at all times. The interests of others is however better that the interests of one’s self, undoubtedly, in avoiding sin. This can be done, i.e. self-interest can be put at its rightful place after the interest of others and the interest of God respectively by:

• Taking up one’s own cross and following Jesus. (Luke 9:23)
• Going out to bring others to Christ (Luke 4:23). Caring for the poor and needy, infirm, and the troubled to make their welfare your greatest concern.
• Developing righteousness in the faith of Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:9)
• Crucifying one’s self with Christ, i.e. going as Christ did on this earth. (Galatians 2:20)
• Shunning bad company (1 Corinthians 15:33)

You can’t just pray evil away, you still have to fight it hard on your own. So, to say no to yourself you have to be very much disciplined. Let’s conclude with Proverbs 22:15, “A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away.” God grace abound in us this day and beyond, Amen!