El Alma
Understanding the Soul
Introduction to the Soul
- The speaker introduces the topic of the soul, prompting listeners to consider where they would place their hand if asked to touch their soul.
- The soul is described as comprising thoughts (intellect), will, desires, and emotions, encompassing both positive and negative feelings.
Importance of Renewing Thoughts
- Reference to Ephesians 2:3 highlights that before knowing Jesus, individuals lived to satisfy carnal desires and were subject to God's wrath.
- Emphasizes that having the mind of Christ requires ceasing to live according to the soul's desires.
The Battle of the Mind
- The speaker warns against making important decisions when emotionally affected, urging prayer for guidance.
- Ephesians 4:17–23 is cited, explaining how those who do not know God are confused and live in darkness due to hardened hearts.
Transformation Through Christ
Renewal of Mind and Spirit
- Listeners are encouraged to discard their old sinful nature and allow the Spirit to renew their thoughts and attitudes.
- The mind is identified as a battlefield where actions are determined; thus, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform thoughts can lead to changed behavior.
Thinking Like Christ
- Citing 1 Corinthians 2:16, it’s noted that believers possess God's spirit which enables them to think like Christ—a privilege requiring discipline in seeking His word daily.
Trusting in God Amidst Challenges
Continuous Relationship with God
- Acknowledges that some view thinking like Christ as unattainable but asserts that through God's spirit, believers can align their thoughts with His.
- Isaiah 26:3 is referenced for reassurance about maintaining peace by focusing on God amidst life's challenges.
Faith Over Emotion
- Encourages trusting in God during difficult times rather than relying on fluctuating emotions; faith should remain steadfast despite circumstances.
Living by the Spirit
Eliminating Past Desires
- Discusses Galatians 5:17–25 which instructs believers to live by the Spirit instead of succumbing to sinful nature's desires.
Warning Against Sinful Behaviors
- Lists behaviors associated with sinful nature such as immorality and discord while emphasizing awareness of these tendencies.
Guidance from the Spirit
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Life Transformation
- Those who practice sinful behaviors will not inherit the Kingdom of God; instead, the fruits of the Spirit include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. There is no law against these virtues.
- Allowing God's Spirit to guide you through His Holy Spirit enables you to overcome past desires and organize your life according to divine principles.
- Matthew 26:41 advises vigilance and prayer to avoid temptation; while our spirit is willing, our flesh is weak. Prayer should be our primary defense against weakness.
- To please God, we must submit our will to His; this requires surrendering personal desires for a life that aligns with God's good and perfect will.
- Although it’s challenging to let go of past ways of living, God instills in us both the desire and power to do what is right. We are not alone in this journey as He supports us.
Assurance in Christ
- Romans 8:1 reassures that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus who walk according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. His blood justifies us as children and heirs alongside Christ.
- In moments of temptation towards selfishness, remember that "I no longer live; Christ lives in me." All old things have passed away since accepting Jesus into your life.
- Maintaining focus on God—who has good plans for you—is crucial amidst emotional turmoil or challenging situations. Trusting Him leads to a future filled with hope.