Daily Digest #81

Having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. —Romans 6:18

I am a sinner. I still get stirred into sin by little distractions and temptations surrounding me sometimes. I found out how spiritually weak I really am. At times when I get into a situation dealing with a negative person, sometimes I'm the one being pulled down rather than I pulling that person up. Other times, I just allow myself to be carried away. I now realize that it really is a matter of commitment. How obedient are we, really? I assessed myself and realized that the times I actually called out to Him were the moments I eventually chose to take the path of righteousness. Here, I also realize how God guides and helps us overcome temptation and sin whenever we ask Him. It is all a choice -- to listen and to obey. I guess most of us are looking at how difficult it is to do, because by default, we still believe that we are attached to sin. But it is always up to us if we choose to be a slave to sin, or a slave of righteousness.

Here's a beautiful poem written by Maya Angelou, about being a Christian. May we be enlightened by her words.

I'M A CHRISTIAN
By Maya Angelou

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin."
I'm whispering "I was lost,"
Now I'm found and forgiven.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need CHRIST to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
and need HIS strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
and need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
but, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain,
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
who received God's good grace, somehow.

May we ask for forgiveness for every sin we have committed and believe that God has really forgiven us. May we also learn to forgive ourselves. God always gives us a clean slate to start with. May we call out to Him when challenged to be tempted into sinning. We are not perfect, but God will make us perfect in His way and time. May we keep a close relationship with God through His son, Jesus Christ. Pray always.