LIVING "HEART-HEALTHY"

Saturday, October 6th> Galatians 5: 19-21; Exodus 20:1-17; Hosea 4:6

God has given us guidelines to help us avoid things that clog our arteries and stop us from living "heart-healthy".  What causes us not to take advantage of these guidelines?  It's the same thing that causes us not to enjoy the benefits of all the great tips for being healthy physically: WE JUST DON'T WANT TO.  We don't see the value in finding out what it takes to keep us out of the doctor's office because it feels too good to our flesh to be inactive and eat whatever.  We spend years just catering to our carnal nature, making excuses for the things that cause us to feel guilty when we are face to face with the consequences of our actions.

That's why I love the Message version of Galatians 5: 19-21.  Since we've CHOSEN the Christian life, we can't just hold its principles as abstract ideals in our heads.  WE'RE COMPELLED BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD TO WORK OUT WHAT THOSE IDEALS MEAN IN OUR DAILY LIVES.  Only the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit, as a result of reading and applying the Word of God, will bring the FRUIT of all God wants manifested in our lives.  Does it feel good all the time?  No... But neither does being left alone after driving away those who love us because of unchecked emotions.  Will we be victorious every time if we let the Holy Spirit be in control rather than our hearts?  YES, because there's no guilt afterwards-- only life leading to more life.  And that's what God wants for us.  WE JUST HAVE TO WANT IT FOR OURSELVES.