You Can’t Have It Both Ways

by Darla Noble

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don’t walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus made me free from the law of sin and of death.

Romans 8:1-2

Vince never missed a Sunday at church or a mid-week Bible study meeting. He used his musical talents to help lead worship, and was involved with other ministries and fellowship groups in the church, as well. Yes, from all indications, Vince was a strong, Christian man.

The week after the preacher announced the church was starting a new ministry for recovering addicts, however, Vince knew it was time. Vince went forward during the invitation, then proceeded to tell the rest of the congregation that he’d been hiding and ignoring a drinking problem for several years. Vince said, “When Dave made the announcement last week about the recovery ministry, I knew that was God’s way of telling me it was time for me to quit trying to have it both ways.”

Vince has been alcohol-free for nearly ten years. He is now able to say he knows there is no condemnation for him because he truly is walking with the Spirit—not with the flesh. He is truly a free man and happier than he has ever been.

Pray: Father, give me the courage to repent of my sins; calling on the Holy Spirit to direct my life. In the name of Jesus, I pary, Amen.