What are the things that stop you from being who Christ has called you to be? (by Tendo)

What are the things that stop you from being who Christ has called you to be?

Last Sunday, during her sermon on Running the race of faith, Pastor Vickylextar encouraged us to reflect on our Christian walk and ask ourselves this important question. It is important because Christ has a purpose for our lives. 

I have been thinking a lot about my purpose in life and whether I am fulfilling it. With the year coming to an end, it is common for us to reflect on the year our successes and challenges and plan for the year ahead. 

Pastor Vickylextar encouraged us that in finishing this year, we have to stop living by the flesh and doing what feels good for us, and justifying it by saying: “God understands.” Pastor explained that God does understand these struggles, which is why He has given us the Holy Spirit to help us do those things we could not do on our own, and He can help us overcome those habits and sins that we struggle with.

In thinking of what Pastor shared, it makes me realize that I should not just reflect on the year and plan for the year ahead, but reflect on the word and fellowship with the Holy Spirit, for it is through him that I can overcome my struggles and fulfill my purpose.

She went on to share that faith is based on the fact: “it is finished!”

As the bible says in 1 John 3:18:

For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

That is, Christ came to destroy the works of the devil and destroy sin.

However, Pastor reminded us that if we are under the control of sin -which Christ destroyed- then we have not fully submitted to Christ.

Therefore I must be fully submitted to Him and understand that while challenges and struggles may come, I must walk in faith. And as Yeshua says in Luke 9:23, deny myself daily.

As Pastor said, the faith walk is not always easy, and we will go through challenges, but we ought to have faith not only when times are good and when it is convenient but at all times.

 This week it is my commitment to submit to the Holy Spirit not only in the big things but also in the small things, and practically overcome something that I had been struggling with, and as we come to the end of 2020, I’ll ask him how I can be a better father, husband and man.

– Tendo, November 3, 2020