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This morning I was reminded that   
asceticism does not curb the flesh nature....      
Stopping doing fleshly things 
doesn't stop my heart from craving them    
and using this strategy  
pretty much dooms me for failure.... :(     
ref Col 2:20-23    

So....    What do you suggest Paul?    

Paul suggests setting my mind on things above
This includes making a choice to
- Put to death
- Put away
- Put off
things of the flesh
AND
- Put on Christ's nature
- Let the Word dwell richly in me
- Steadfast prayer
- With thanksgiving
ref Col 3:2- 4:2

I was listening to a friend recently
He is in the midst of suffering significant loss
and part of him is
Angry
and he would like to have a
Angry (read Pity) Party for himself....

BUT
He has chosen
in these times
to
STOP
and
listen to worship music
or
watch a movie about others who have
triumphed in crisis with Christ

He chooses
to shift his eyes off of self
and onto God

AND it is working!
He is not 'drowning'
but actually living in a measure of
Joy...

He inspires me
and he informs me
how to do
what Paul instructs.....

Lord Jesus
I choose now
before temptation or crisis
to recognize the futility of self
and the victory of dwelling in
You.

I choose now
to raise my eyes
instead of lowering them

I choose to make space now
to enjoy You
that when difficulty comes
hanging out with You is 'normal'

Thank You for teaching me this.
Victory over my old nature.
Yes!
Thank You.

PJ