Setting Our Mind On Jesus This Holiday And Everyday

“In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.” Galatians 4:3-7, ESV

Every day we are challenged by our human desires. And every day we must choose God over our nature. If we struggle on an ordinary day, I believe we struggle that much more on days that thwart our routine—holidays being many of them.

There are many slippery slopes as we approach the beloved day of Jesus. We hustle for approval, sweat over hosting, and break the bank for recognition.

We are knee deep in that time of the year and I am eagerly praying for discipline and focus as I move forward day to day.

“Thank you, Lord, for your Word. May I be 1) convicted and 2) reminded of your commission on my life.”

Why these two things? Because when I am frolicking on the line of eternity, what I need the most is a reminder of who I was before Christ, what Christ did for me, and how that ought to impact how I live my life.

I remember vividly the dark alley I was wandering around before Jesus met me. Living for the quick satisfaction and approval of others.

So, when Paul says “…when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles…” he is referring to our sin and the temptation to focus on personal works to feel accepted by God.

That thought process is very childlike and far from what the truth tells us. It is by faith alone we are saved. He meets us where we’re at and wants only for us to take His hand.

The King’s willingness to step down from His throne and meet me in my darkness convicted me of my fluctuation with His promises.

So, why can we trust in His hand? Why does the step away from the dark alley mean so much?

Because He went through it all. “God sent forth his son, born of a woman, born under the law.” Jesus walked this earth experiencing the same trials we experience. He felt temptation, He was hated, He was judged, He was mocked, and He was crucified.

He walked the path before us so that we may then walk forward knowing He is with us and for us.

So, we’re saved, He meets us, but then what? We must respond knowing that He is better than everything we once knew. Those elementary principles? He is better.

Something I am beyond thankful for on a daily basis is the Holy Spirit. We may believe what we talked about above, but we are also guaranteed to sin. That’s why we need Jesus every day. Welcome the Spirit that convicts and guides us to become more and more Christlike.

God does not just leave us alone after the moment of salvation; He gives us what we need to live for Him. We are without excuse but to fight for Him every day.

When I am facing approval dead in the eyes, when I am fighting for recognition or feeling the weight of stress: I remember that Jesus is better.

When I am watching the meaningless and temporary satisfactions of this world fill my heart, I remember the alley I was lost in. When I am noticing my focus fall on outside things, I remember the Cross and focus my eyes on that.

Here is the challenge: remember who Jesus is and set your focus on divine things this holiday season and every day after.

Author: Amy Hornbuckle from www.ingraceandknowledge.com