Psalm 143:10

“Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your gracious Spirit lead me on level ground.”

I’ve only ridden a horse a handful of times in my life. Thinking back on these experiences, I can remember excitement paired with extreme anxiety for sure; I felt rather out of control to be fully honest. I felt much safer brushing or feeding these powerful animals while my feet remained firmly planted on the ground. When I gathered enough courage to ride one, my perspective changed. They are much taller than one might perceive. They are most certainly powerful, and it doesn’t take long for your autonomic nervous system to question your decision making skills. You begin to think, “Why did I think it was safe to get on top of this animal when I really have no idea what I’m doing?” Yet, thankfully I was riding horses that had years of training and were under their master’s control who provided commands nearby. So, all my experiences were positive and completely fulfilling. I’m thankful that I did not succumb to my fears.

After reading this passage today, I couldn’t help but think about my 2018 goals. 2017 brought insight into discernment, and I know I’m only scratching the surface. This year, God continues to draw me into the gift of discernment; yet, He has added “teachable spirit” to this growing list. As a believer, we have the Holy Spirit as our guide. However, how many times do we ignore the Spirit’s voice and end up being guided by our flesh? My 2018 goal is to be teachable!

We do have a choice! We either live in the flesh and fulfill our fleshly desires including but not limited to pride, idolatry, selfishness, lust, jealousy, anger, divisions, negativity, etc. Galatians 5:17 says, “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.” I refuse to sit where it’s comfortable any longer. I choose to be filled and guided by the Spirit at all times. The journey may cause me to be rather “uncomfortable” as He stretches and teaches…but all for His glory.

Will you remain on the sidelines because you are afraid of what God will actually do in your life? Allow the Spirit to hold the reigns! You have a choice to make:

1. Remain on the fence watching others being filled by the Spirit through their obedience.
2. Stepping into the arena but refusing to let go of your control thereby keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground out of pride and fear.
3. Crucifying the flesh and releasing the reigns while you ride atop the Spirit’s will for your life.

Question: What is/are your 2018 spiritual goal(s)?

Thankful,

Christian Armetta