In Touch 12-17-04

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

Friday December 17, 2004
Placing Our Minds Under the Spirit's Control
Romans 12:1-3

A spiritual battle rages for control of our minds because the way we think determines how we will behave. If we want to conquer our sinful tendencies, we must learn to see ourselves as God does - a new creation who is no longer under sin's mastery. Because of the presence of Christ's Spirit, we have the capacity to be "more than conquerors" regardless of our previous sins. (Romans 8:37)

We also need to recognize the Enemy's lies that tell us we are weak and will fail again. Then we are to fight back with God's truth that declares Christ's Spirit is greater than Satan. (1 John 4:4). We are to focus our minds on spiritual things (Philippians 4:8) so we will learn to distinguish between what fits us as believers and what does not. Finally, we must choose what is suitable (Matthew 5:3-11) and reject what is ungodly. (Galatians 5:19-21) The longer we are Spirit-led, the more sensitive we will be to His warnings about temptation's presence, and the more strength we will have to win the battle for our thought life.

The Spirit-filled life starts with the gift of the Holy Spirit to all who receive Christ as Savior. It becomes a reality as we place ourselves under the Spirit's control. It is best lived out by using the divine power which He releases into our lives. It also requires diligence on our part to resist temptation and maintain our surrendered state.

This Christmas season, give yourself a gift. Trade in your "independent mind," and experience the victories God gives to those who are Spirit-filled.

Need gift ideas? The 2004 In Touch Christmas Catalog is here. Visit the In Touch online bookstore for more information.
http://www.intouch.org/cc/christmas2004/index2_39287503.html

Teen Connection is the official teen outreach of In Touch Ministries. Be sure to tell your teen about this cutting-edge web site filled with practical content for teenagers of all spiritual maturity levels. The featured interview for December is best-selling singer/songwriter Bebo Norman. Check out Teen Connection today!
http://www.teen-connection.net