In the strength of this renewal by the Spirit, we can proceed with power to do our part to conquer temptation. Human effort is essential. Life is arduous, so we may as well learn to relish the struggle. The chick must peck its way out of the shell, and the butterfly must labor to open its untried wings. By contrast, the way of temptation is laced with indolence and impatience. But the way of God calls forth our best effort.
The way of God also summons our faith. We enter the spiritual life by faith, and we progress by this same gift of faith. As we wend our way through life, we can achieve an artful balance between human effort and the gift of faith. Some people expect God to do everything for them. Others forget God and try to make their way through life solely on their own power. In the end, victory crowns the efforts of all who rely upon faith.
God can effectively guide the person whose life is in motion. The pilot can steer the boat as it glides. Through our faith, the Spirit uplifts and magnifies all our efforts in the solving of life’s problems. Do the best you can, but remember to deploy your faith.
When troubles come, you and God can manage them—together. No doubt, there will be troubles today. There will be emotional discomforts and unexpected pitfalls. Be assured that no matter what happens, God is beside you. Remember, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. You don’t have to face life’s problems alone. Allow God to lead you through the temptations and decisions that arise each day.
What is the effort needed here? Overeaters must find and execute a set of dependable habits for self-control. We need to make decisions ahead of time, to prepare for the onslaught of temptation. Then we must carry out those decisions, through all the instantaneous choices that confront us in daily life.
The human mind plans the way,
but the Lord directs the steps.
Proverbs 16:9
