A Hostile Environment

Scott Beyer
07/24/23 - Bulletin

“… because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so” (Romans 8:7)

            Very few people would describe themselves as being “hostile toward God”.  The average person in America does believe in God in some basic sense, and most would not consider themselves in a hostile relationship with Him – yet Paul is not wrong.

            When I set my focus on my own selfish ambitions, personal expectations, and earthly desires, I create a situation where I am likely to react with frustration, anger, or fear when my ambitions and expectations differ with God.  Like a dog with his food bowl, I become protective of it and snarl at the Master if He reminds me that the food is actually His to offer, not mine to take.  We must perpetually remind ourselves that we are subject to God and all our fleshly possessions and circumstances are His to give or take away.  We must submit to Him and subordinate our own passions to His will.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Romans 8:1-8

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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