To rise from a wreck we need to put all our effort toward the one who can make things better, God. Find the discipline required to rise. It will seem painful rather than pleasant; later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. "TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN TRAINED BY IT" 

Forerunner Commentary

Self-justification tends to blind us to God's goodness, His gifts, because it intensifies what originally occurred. In our haste to absolve ourselves, we forget things that God has provided us: life itself, a mind that can gather information, the ability to reason, the ability to remember, and a spirit that, not only makes us human, but confers the potential to be like God. Adam's blaming of God for His gift of Eve reveals his horrendous ingratitude for what he had been given.

I love this explanation of the self-justification of sin. 

Life has been but I want to at least upload the reading of the devotional. 

The best place to make new habits is on the job out in the field where we have the opportunity to apply this new habit or continue the current problematic behavior. 

I decided to add a little structure to the episodes. After the devotional reading, I will start the second part by thanking listeners for joining. I also want to add ways to structure the second half and how I process the devotional. So, Over the next few weeks, I hope to have a process to follow each episode to help me be more focused and possibly get a little more out of doing this. Suggestions are welcome!

"There are spots that faith has not worked in us as yet, places untouched by the life of God. There were none of those spots in Jesus Christ's life, and there are to be none in ours."

There are clear and obvious spots I need to work on. Not being anxious out of mind when stressful situations become present in my life. Showing my wife and kids love at all times. Having compassion for other people in my life. Having confidence in the task God has given me. 

Let Jesus take you over for His enterprise. Give all that you have to Him

Abyss - A bottomless gulf

There is unlimited freedom for everyone around you including yourself If we draw from the water of life. Our flesh opposes this and causes us to draw from lies that lead to our death in hell. This is a war and we need to understand ourselves better so we can be more effective warriors of faith. The patterns of sin are simple and I bet you find yourself doing the same garbage behaviors or stuck in the same thought loops which drag you down and away from life. Take the time to understand how you represent the faith in Jesus truly. Take the time to understand how you represent the flesh that opposes that faith. I know I am tired of the same thoughts running wild in my mind that prevent me from connection and truth. The patterns of the flesh can be broken and we can lessen their impact on us. It takes proactive effort on our end, community, dedication, and most of all Jesus to make it happen. 

"For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

That is a chilling question. If you are not obeying the gospel of God I hope you change your attitude. There is always hope and reason to be encouraged. Not every episode may seem like encouragement but I intend always to remind you of to confirm your call and election every day. We can all take part in God's beautiful plan here on earth. 

What has God elected you to do?