Daily life with Jesus by Grahame Howard

Saturday, 20 December 2025

Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit? Part 2

"For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard".

Romans 3:23. NLT

When I've witnessed to people over the years, I've been surprised to hear the statement that they have never sinned. Some have been quite prickly about it. I've come to the conclusion that when we hear people say this, they are under conviction and just won't give in or admit this fact. The bible is quite sure that we have all sinned and this is why Jesus had to come and set us free from our sin by dying in our place.

But do we, as Christians, realise that certain things we do on a daily basis probably, is sin? Take for example the subject of adultery. We may not actually commit this act but, we come close sometimes. What does Jesus say about this?

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. 30And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell". Matthew 5:27-30.

Just the fact that we look at another person with lust within us, suggests that we are committing adultery with that person. This could be, out and about in town, in a pub, at work etc. We can all fall to the temptation, especially when it is a two-way situation or watching movies, TV or reading a magazine. I ask you: 'Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit?

Then of course there can be the practice of telling lies. Someone may say, 'It's only a little white lie.' No it is not, it is an out and out lie, there are no such things as a white lie. Such things are said to prevent hurting people's feelings about some things. Instead of speaking the truth, they tell a 'white' lie. Really it's a cover up and who covers things up? Yes, you're right, Satan does. I ask 'Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit?

Gossip, judging and even grumbling and complaining, can all fall under the category of sin. How many times do we fall into this trap? What about using unsavoury language or taking the Lord's name in vain when we're agitated? Again, I ask 'Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit?

People may feel that this is all splitting hairs but, think again; it is not. They are moments when our flesh is ruling and from there, anything can happen if we don't take back the control.

Make it your aim that, your flesh will not rule anything, but your spirit will.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen
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Friday, 19 December 2025

Will my flesh rule this moment or my spirit?

"Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret—it only causes harm."

Psalm 37:8 NKJV

Will my flesh rule this moment or my spirit? This was a quotation from Dr SM Lockeridge, a Baptist pastor deceased. It is one of those phrases, that speak to you as you are reading it. If you go one step further and speak it out, it can help to dampen a fiery moment. Let me explain.

When we operate in anger and frustration, it totally ruins and negates everything we stand for as a Christian. Dr Tony Evans, a minister from the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas writes: "A man who is quick tempered does not provide the kind of righteousness which God expects from His children. Those who lose their temper give people a wrong impression about Christianity."

Therefore, we need to adhere to Ephesians 4:31: 'Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice." Again James puts it this way:

"Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath, for the wrath of man does not produce, the righteousness of God." James 1:19-20. The anger that springs from self-centredness, does not accomplish the righteousness of God, but is conducive only to malice and destruction. Therefore, there is a need to listen to God's thoughts on a matter, such as learning to be slow to speak our own point of view, and avoid certain anger.

Remember the three R's that I mentioned some time ago? Recognise what is happening; Refuse to react in a negative way, and Resist any form of temptation to take the matter into your own hands, causing a scene. Of course, this takes time to put into place but helps to attain to 'Will my flesh rule this Moment, or my spirit.'

Once words are spoken, we can't takes them back. Therefore, imagine the damage caused if we speak angrily to someone. There is a need to take control of this area. If you determine to do so, God will meet you square on. But, we must make the first move. A good place to start is to take Dr Lockeridge’s statement and write it in your bible and then, with the three R's and whatever scripture may help, present this in prayer to God each day. If you trip up, repent immediately and receive God's forgiveness. When faced with a difficult situation, straightaway ask the question, 'Will my flesh rule this moment or my spirit?'

If you can keep to this formula you will be in a better place to receive the victory over anger.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Thursday, 18 December 2025

Are you taking care of your body?

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth". 3 John 1:2. NKJV

Would we want our physical condition to correspond to our spiritual? Sadly, it is true that we take better care of our bodies than of our souls. This is why FB Meyer remarked:

'It would not be desirable to express the wish of verse 2 to all our friends, because if their bodies were to correspond to the condition of their souls, they would suddenly fall into ill-health,'

Many faith-healers and prosperity preachers teach that all sickness is result of sin in a person's life. and if the person isn't healed it's because of their lack of faith. If that is the case, why is is that Gaius' spiritual condition was good but his physical condition was not so good? This shows that one's spiritual state cannot be argued from the bodily one.

We need to take care of ourselves - our bodies and our souls. This means not over-eating, getting exercise and enough sleep. It also means reading your bible, praying and listening to God. Many people study the bible at great length, thus receiving bible fitness. But sadly, they neglect their physical body. If your soul prospers but your physical state is dwindling, something needs to be done. Your body needs fitness and good health as does your soul so, there is a need to get the right balance.

This doesn't mean buying all of the gear that joggers wear when out running. Neither does it mean booking in at the local gym seven days a week. It just means being aware that there is a need to take care of everything. John says, 'I pray that you may prosper in all things.' Note the 'all', it is important.

We are all at risk of overeating, drinking too much alcohol and lazying around. Probably now is the time to change a few things, and that is over to you. But don't forget the soul side of things. Ask God for help in getting a time-table or something like that that each area is catered for equally.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Wednesday, 17 December 2025

Why are you still worrying?

"casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you". 1 Peter 5:7. NKJV

As Christians, we are privileged to cast all of our anxieties and care on Jesus with a strong confidence that He cares. Peter was quoting from the Greek version of the Old Testament - Psalm 55:22: 'Cast your care on the LORD, and He shall sustain you.' An early writer J Sidlow Baxter, pointed out that:

'there are are two kinds of care here: 'There is anxious care, in the words: 'Casting all your care upon Him', and there is affectionate care, in the words, 'He careth for you.' Over against all our own anxious care is our Saviour's never-failing affectionate care.'

Worry is unnecessary so, why are you still doing it? There is absolutely no need for us to carry our own burdens when Jesus is willing and able to bear them for us. It is futile to worry. Let's be honest, worry hasn't solved a problem yet but, it has caused much pain, stress and illness, possibly death to some. Worry is a sin. One preacher put it this way: 'Worry is sin because it denies the love of God; it says He does not care. And it denies the power of God; it says that He isn't able to deliver me from whatever is causing me to worry.' Anon. Now, that is something to think about.

Peter becomes more serious here. He instructs us to stay alert and watch out for our enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. I've highlighted the word 'Like'. He isn't a roaring lion at all, but he likes us to think that he is. However, be careful, he is not one to play around with. He has his own power and without Jesus' power within us, we may be well and truly hurt. We are to resist him, steadfast in the faith and this means putting on the Armour of God. ( Ephesians 6:10-18) daily.

Therefore, as of today, refuse to worry. It is doing you no good and it puts a big Highlight on your witness. It is sin, Jesus told us not to worry. Disobedience to Him is a sin, isn't it?

So refrain from it.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Tuesday, 16 December 2025

Always be ready to speak of Jesus

"and always be ready to give a defence to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear". 1 Peter 3:15 NKJV

We need to be so ready that, at every opportunity we give an account of who we are; who we belong to and what our relationship with Jesus means to us. We are set apart to Jesus - sanctified and we have given Him the rightful place in our lives. Therefore, if anyone asks us about our faith and why we choose to live this way, we need to be ready to give them the truth; not as a fiery sermon, but in a gentle and respectful manner.

We have a hope within us and a good conscience that if people attempt to defame us as being evildoers, those who revile our good conduct in Christ, may be ashamed. For it is better if it is the will of of God to suffer for doing good, than for doing evil. Jesus is devoted to what is good so, no one will harm us. However, if we do suffer for doing what is right, we are blessed. God has us covered either way.

We as Christians, need to be a good witness for Jesus every moment of every day. It's a tall order and we may not always be able to meet this expectation. However, this should never stop us from trying and getting up if we fall. When we achieve this we become a strong witness and people recognise us for what we are. We should never be fearful, whether it be by speaking for Jesus or for just letting people know that we are different because Jesus lives in our heart. You will be slandered for your faith and this may come from people who are the closest to you: 'And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? 14But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 1Peter 3:13-14.

Day to day conversation, often leads to you being able to speak about your faith - the great things He has done for you and can, do for them too, if they choose this. However be careful not to push too close as it may turn them away and the chance may never come again. One of the best witnesses come from the indwelling Holy Spirit. Words may be wasted on some people but, if you are walking close to Jesus, they may be impacted by the Holy Spirit. I call this 'impact evangelism'. Without words, some people can pick up the sweet smelling aroma of Jesus from you and may want to know what it is. You then, are more able to speak with their full attantion.

Never fail to be ready for Jesus' leading.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Monday, 15 December 2025

Things have only just begun for you

“Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!” John 2:10. NKJV

This was the first sign or miracle that Jesus had performed. He, Mary His mother and the disciples had been invited to a wedding in Cana. As the celebrations went on, the wine began to run out. After being told this by His mother, He told the servants to fill with water, six 20-30 gallon pots that were nearby. Whatever they thought of this, nobody said, but when they tasted the wine, according to the master of the feast, it was the finest wine he had tasted and he declared this.

This is the heart of Jesus. It would have been such a humiliation for the bridegroom to declare the party was over because they had no wine left. Jesus spared him from this and gave him 180 gallons, if using the 30 gallon pots, of the finest wine. This would have been 1440 pints equivalent to 4320 glasses at 3 glasses per pint. If using the 20 gallon pots, the pint equivalent would have been 960 pints @ 3 per pint giving 2880 glasses. Now that was some party where Jesus saved this special day.

There is a lesson here that Mary spoke, 'Whatever He says to you, do it.' This is the secret to blessing Jesus - do what He tells you. If you do, you will always have enough and, possibly more. This describes the change in people's lives and situations when we put our trust in Jesus. This describes the best Jesus can give us and the certainty that when we believe and obey His Word, He will give us much more. In other words, 'the best is yet to come.'

At this time, you may be running on empty but, if you can believe Jesus can change this for you, He will. He has the best for you but, this is not a one time offer. He always has the best for you. He gives us an abundance, an overflow 'My cup runs over' Psalm 23:5. 'My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life' John 10:10 NLT. And, let's not forget 'Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.' 3 John 2.

We have conditions for these blessings though, and they consist of quality of life, commitment, dedication and action that is in line with God's Word. We do our best and God does the rest. We need to remember that, He is our Father and, He wishes to give us all we deserve. Notice I said (Deserve). If we live a true life for Him He will open the blessings of heaven for us, and we will have an overflow of His abundance.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Sunday, 14 December 2025

"I never knew you!

"21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!" Matthew 7:21-23. NKJV

When I was a new Christian and read this account above, it put real fear in me. Just the thought that Jesus could say, 'I never knew you' was real scary. Even now at the back of my mind, it makes me think. You may feel the same way, so let us ponder this.

Can you lose you salvation? We've already seen from previous studies over the past few months, that we can't. If we have asked Jesus into our life, then we possess eternal life and will be with Jesus and other Christians in heaven when we die. There are though, many people who believe they are believers, but aren't. They may have had a brief encounter with Jesus, like we see in scripture, however, they have decided not to make a commitment to Him and have gone their own way. As we know, there are many people who have been in the church for many years, who have never asked Jesus to be their Lord and Saviour. They just assume that because they go to church every Sunday and have a bible, that this is all you need. This is not the case.

Jesus told Nicodemus, a prominent Pharisee and ruler of the Jews, that he must be born again. This confused him and he asked Jesus how this could be. Jesus told him that he must first be born of water - a reference to physical birth and the Spirit to enter the kingdom (John 3:5). Thus, Jesus was contrasting physical birth with spiritual birth. This was the way to God's kingdom, being born physically (of water and flesh) and also supernaturally (of the Spirit). This is called being born again.

Therefore, if you have been born again in such a way, you are a Christian and possess eternal life, with a guaranteed entry into heaven. This, however, does not mean you can sit back and wait for this to happen, and be involved in things that you know you should not be involved with. Being a Christian doesn't mean that you will never sin again - far from it. There are times when you may let God down so badly that you will question whether you are saved or not. Be reassured, you are, and are just one of the many of us who behave in such a way every now and then. As soon as you confess your sin, you are forgiven 1 John 1:9.

So, don't get confused or worried that Jesus will tell you that He never knew you. If you belong to Him, you are more likely to hear words such as, 'Well done, My good and faithful servant.'

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Daily life with Jesus by Grahame Howard

Saturday, 20 December 2025

Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit? Part 2

Friday, 19 December 2025

Will my flesh rule this moment or my spirit?

Thursday, 18 December 2025

Are you taking care of your body?

Wednesday, 17 December 2025

Why are you still worrying?

Tuesday, 16 December 2025

Always be ready to speak of Jesus

Monday, 15 December 2025

Things have only just begun for you

Sunday, 14 December 2025

"I never knew you!

Mary - saved from disgrace

Daily life with Jesus by Grahame Howard

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