Do you live defeated?

I know a few people (myself included!) who struggle keeping away from the sweet stuff. So, as is the norm, each New Year we make our committments to stay away from sugar, spice, and everything nice. The problem is, the moment we slip a little -- you know, when we stick something divine in our mouths, it's as though there's no turning back! Bring out the entire cake!

Maybe you don't identify with that. Struggle with anger? I do. Ever find yourself overwhelmed and overcome? It seems like it only takes but a moment before you've rained down disdain or disappointment on some unassuming little soul. My kids are the object of my anger all the time. Before you know it, one little slip of the tongue leads to an outpouring of words that cause harm to the youngest ears in our house. I usually hate myself after something like that happens.

Maybe your sin issue is rooted in a lust. You grew up longing for something that just wasn't yours and you can't kick the habit. Be it a lust for money, attention, or someone elses husband or wife... all it takes is just one more dollar, just one more quick glance, and you're gone -- swimming in the deep waters of defeat.

Why do we live defeated, as though the own weight of our slip up is an all-consuming burden. Do we forget that God's grace covers us? I mean, REALLY covers us? Why do we live defeated? 3 words.

Don't do it.

Don't live defeated! You weren't created to do so! If you slip up or mess up, get back up and move on. Pray for the blessing and guidance of the Spirit to keep you moving in the right direction. 
 
The battles come and go and as the old adage goes, "You win some, you lose some." But, the great news is this: He's won the war; victory is ours through Jesus Christ. Amen?