VATIC Expressions
Truth, Transparency, Transformation
Enjoy this excerpt from:
God's Holy Spirit: Maturing Believers for the Building of His Kingdom
by Tina Augustus.
Special Gift
Our thoughts and actions should always reflect the “Fruit of the Spirit.” When we avoid the “lust of the flesh,” then we can avoid temptation.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” (Galatians 5:16-26 KJV)
God’s Will for us is that we will walk in the love of Jesus Christ, and turn away from all the things that would separate us from Him. He wants us to build His kingdom with a clear not a cloudy mindset – one that is free from all transgression.
How can we be examples as leaders, if we are not obedient to Him? God gives gifts that we might grow in maturity, and to be friends to others.
“And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:1-17 KJV)
Since Jesus Endured Temptation, You Can Too With The Help of Holy Spirit
This journey is not an easy one when you attempt to do it in your own strength. That is why Jesus sent Holy Spirit to help and guide you; however, possessing His Holy Spirit does not relieve you from temptation. Jesus endured temptation throughout His time of ministry on earth. After Jesus was baptized, He was led into the wilderness for forty days and nights. While there, the devil tried to convince Him to give up His rightful position as Lord through temptation.
WWJD, the acronyms for “What Would Jesus Do,” are found on T-Shirts, jewelry, and other promotional material. It was created to enhance one’s integrity and is designed to help a person live a godly life. The downside of this acronym is that most people cannot relate to its true meaning because they do not understand that Jesus’ ability to do the right thing in every situation was in direct correlation to His obedience to and reliance upon Holy Spirit. God’s Holy Spirit is our helper now and is here to help us accomplish what Jesus would do when tempted.
"The devil, playing on His hunger, gave the first test: “Since You’re God’s Son, command this stone to turn into a loaf of bread.” Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy: “It takes more than bread to really live.”
For the second test he led Him up and spread out all the kingdoms of the earth on display at once. Then the devil said, “They’re Yours in all their splendor to serve Your pleasure. I’m in charge of them all and can turn them over to whomever I wish. Worship me and they’re Yours, the whole works.” Jesus refused, again backing His refusal with Deuteronomy: “Worship the Lord your God and only the Lord your God. Serve Him with absolute single-heartedness.”
For the third test the devil took Him to Jerusalem and put Him on top of the Temple. He said, “If You are God’s Son, jump. It’s written, isn’t it, that ‘He has placed You in the care of angels to protect You; they will catch You; You won’t so much as stub Your toe on a stone’?” “Yes,” said Jesus, “and it’s also written, ‘Don’t you dare tempt the Lord your God." (Luke 4:1-13 The Message Bible)
Scripture Memorization
Memorize scriptures to help you battle the enemy. Purchase reading tools if you need additional help. “Bible Promises for You,” from the New International Version by the Zondervan Corporation is a great tool. This book has hundreds of scriptures from the Bible that can help build your faith and confidence in God. It will help you withstand temptation and thoughts that come and attack your mind.
Quiet Time with Holy Spirit
In my personal walk with God, I have found that sitting still in a quiet place and listening for God’s Holy Spirit can help when seeking peace of mind and answers from Him. I received much direction in writing this book just by spending time alone in the presence of God and allowing His Holy Spirit to guide me. Allowing yourself to “be there” with His Holy Spirit can and will reduce stress, anxiety, and anything that is causing a battle in your mind. It is a pleasure spending time with Holy Spirit!
“This Book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” (Joshua 1:8 KJV)
© 2015 Tina Augustus