God or Self?

Who will reign in me—God or self? After I rise from morning prayer each day, the battle begins. Whenever I allow self to win a battle, it gains strength, and the next battle is harder. Before I know it, I am in the midst of a war. When I look back over the conflict I see all the casualties of this spiritual warfare and find myself echoing Paul, “That which I do, I do not want to do, and that which I want to do, I do not do” (Rom. 7:19). This type of self-filled experience leaves me drained and my mind shell shocked with disgust for my own wretchedness.

However, when I let God reign, I experience the fulfillment of His promise to “do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20). The day is filled with joy when I walk with the Lord, for as he promises, “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matt. 11:30). There is thanksgiving in my heart, praise on my lips and unceasing sweet communion with the Lord. All because I let God lead.

So why do I ever allow self to reign? It is the most illogical, impractical, damaging thing I can do, and yet I struggle with it daily. Thankfully my Savior woos me with His encouraging words, accepts me as I am right now, and is long-suffering as He teaches me how to live victoriously through Him. Praise the Lord for His extraordinary love!

This is what we want to share with the unreached. We want them to come to know Jesus intimately. Won’t you join us through your prayers and monthly financial support?

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