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June 20, 2007

While talking to a new convert lately, I was reminded of a friend’s testimony about right after God saved him. He told God "I'm going to get rid of my matches, lighters, cigarettes and ashtrays - now please meet me in the middle!" He testified that the next morning, right after his first cup of coffee, he realized that the desire for smoking was gone, and he started crying when he realized God had done His part!

What areas of your life are there that you haven't completely given over to God yet? What parts are holding you back from complete spiritual victories, and you're afraid to let them go and give them up to God? You know the Holy Spirit has been dealing with you about them, because that still, small voice has been talking to you about it. No one else knows about it, but you can't shake that little whisper that hangs around, bugging you and letting you know that God isn't happy with that area of your life.

Isn't it time to get rid of your ashtrays? There are almost always "things" that we attach to certain habits and patterns, and by getting rid of those “things” you are showing God that you are willing to do your part and that you believe He will do His part in meeting you halfway.

Sacrifice is never easy. It's designed to be painful. God says "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou will not despise." (Psalms 51:19) Hebrews tells us "Let us lay aside EVERY weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and run with patience the race that is set before us."

What is God dealing with you about? Do you spend enough alone time with God? Is your prayer life what it should be? Do you read God's word as much as you should? Are there habits in your life that God isn't pleased with? Is there a secret that only God knows about?

God isn't a game player. The things he calls for us to give up is for OUR good. Our victory can only come from a complete and total sacrifice of self, and the Holy Spirit is the agent that God uses to call us to action.

So.... what can we do?

1) Acknowledge what the Holy Spirit is dealing with you about.
2) Sacrifice it to God. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." If there is a need for repentance, now is the time to come clean with God.
3) Ask God to meet you halfway. Do everything in your power that you know to do to put distance between you and this fault. Don't leave it within arm's reach - throw out the ashtrays where you can't pick them up again!
4) Expect God's blessings. You can never (NEVER!) outgive God!

Will you do you part and throw your ashtrays out?

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