Why is Being like Jesus so Hard?

My bathroom remodel seems representative of my walk with Jesus.

The remodeling process seems endless. Like the new floor (which used to be brown shag carpet), the foundation of my life has changed. The Bible says when you know Jesus, you are a new creation in Christ. The old is washed away. And it is true, there are many bad habits I have replaced with good ones. But what about the freedom Christ promises? On some days, like the remodel process, I feel I take one step forward and two steps back. Why does the garbage and clutter still linger there on the new floor? The garbage of negative thinking. The clutter of selfishness, unforgiveness, judgment, or the need for the approval of others…none of which are attributes of Jesus.

The answer is fairly simple. The clutter lingers on the floor of my new foundation when I listen to the accuser, Satan instead of the One who loves me. The accuser tells me it is my responsibly to change. He tells me that as a Christian, I should be ashamed of myself for not being perfect like Jesus.

This is why so many Christians give up. Quit. Resign. Leave. Vacate the idea of Jesus all together.

There is a way to overcome these obstacles.

Remodel using God’s word instead of the Satan’s.

When we learn to listen to God and grasp how deeply we are loved, the truth is revealed and we walk in freedom.

Put on the armor of God. Ephesians 6:10-11 (NLT) “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.” For explanation of the armor of God, check out the series here on my blog.

• Understand that repentance and confession are freedom NOT shame or guilt. If you feel shame or guilt, you are listening to the wrong voice. Both repentance and confession are meant to align us in relationship with God and others. Anything outside of repentance and confession is rebellion. We are free to choose. Romans 8:1-2 (NIV) “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.”
• Accept the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Did you know, as a Christian the Holy Spirit is God living in you? He is our comfort, our truth teller, our counselor, our guide. The Holy Spirit gives you discernment and shows you the gifts and talents God wants you to use to make this world reflect the love, joy and peace of its heavenly Father. Romans 8:9 (ESV) “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”

My friend and co-minister, Charity Rattray wrote the most beautiful piece on the Holy Spirit I have ever read. It is truly one of the greatest gifts I could give you!

Enjoy and remember that you are God’s beloved!