The Upper Room Daily Devotional from Nashville, Tennessee, United States “SHAPING YOUR LIFE” for Thursday, 4 August 2016 with Scripture: Romans 12:1-2

The Upper Room Daily Devotional from Nashville, Tennessee, United States “SHAPING YOUR LIFE” for Thursday, 4 August 2016 with Scripture: Romans 12:1 I exhort you, therefore, brothers, in view of God’s mercies, to offer yourselves as a sacrifice, living and set apart for God. This will please him; it is the logical “Temple worship” for you. 2 In other words, do not let yourselves be conformed to the standards of the ‘olam hazeh. Instead, keep letting yourselves be transformed by the renewing of your minds; so that you will know what God wants and will agree that what he wants is good, satisfying and able to succeed.
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Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.[Romans 12:11 (NIV)]
I attend an exercise class three times a week. I spend time in aerobics and lift weights for muscle tone and strength. Some of the exercises are difficult to execute in the way our leader expects. I have a difficult time with curls and with holding weights at arm’s length. I cannot quite do some of the stretching exercises. I am improving; but without spending time concentrating and working on these exercises, I will not get the full benefit of the workout.
The same principle is true of the spiritual life. I strive to strengthen my faith through intentional practice by studying the Bible and reading Christian books. I try to be conscious of my surroundings and look for opportunities to witness to God’s love through my actions. I regularly attend church, Sunday school, and a Christian accountability group. I read scripture and a daily devotional every morning, comparing what I read and hear with my everyday life.
Even with practice, I sometimes struggle in my faith. Yet, I am improving. As I spend more time studying and seeking to do God’s work, I more fully live into the life of discipleship I have chosen.
The Author: Ruben G. Garza (Texas, USA)
Thought for the Day: I will shape my life with Christian study and action.
Prayer: Steadfast God, help us to discern and to choose your will for our lives. Amen.
Prayer focus: THOSE SEEKING A CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

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