The Two Spirits, part 4

Over the last few weeks, we've examined how believers are governed by one of two "spirits" (attitudes).

Here's what Paul tells Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7 -

For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.

He encourages his young friend not to give in to the attitude of fear and timidity. Instead, he reminds Timothy that the Holy Spirit empowers him with a different attitude.

One of power. Of ability. Of confidence and boldness.

One of love. The ability to love and forgive, even when it seems impossible.

And finally, one of sound judgment.

The Bible tells us our hearts are deceitful. The Bible tells us we need to be careful with trusting its leadings and inclinations. But God has given us something else… a spirit of sound judgment. Discipline. Self control. The ability to think clearly about what needs to be done. That’s part of the job of the Holy Spirit. Part of His job is to be our counselor… our guide.

What this tells me is that nonbelievers cannot possess sound judgment. I know, you’ve probably known some really wise people who gave you advice that weren’t Christians. And we’ve all met Christians who didn’t seem to have a lick of common sense.

Well, this goes beyond just making decisions about business or jobs or relationships. Everyone makes decisions about those things. The sound judgment, the sound mind given to you by Christ enables you to be self-controlled. You don’t have to be controlled by sinful desires any more. Sin doesn’t have to be your master. You don’t have to be a slave to the need for more wealth. The need for more things. You don’t have to be a slave to an addiction or sexual sin or anything else. Christians do struggle with those things, but the difference is that you don’t have to be controlled by those things anymore.

You’ve been given a sound mind. Sound judgment. The ability, with the Holy Spirit’s guidance, to grow to be more like Christ. To choose not to associate with enslaving desires, behaviors, and decisions, and to choose to make decisions and control yourself in a way that will glorify God.

My friends, that’s who you are. That’s what you get as a child of God.

Take a moment and thank God that you don't have to be controlled by your desires anymore. God has given you the supernatural ability through His Spirit to control yourself and grow to be more like His Son.

By His Grace,

Adam