Falling apart? Defeated? Discouraged? Fearful? Anxious? Making wrong choices? Living with consequences as a result of bad choices? Wondering, “How can I press on because of my sin?” Well, guess what? We aren’t perfect – YET! And, yes, we make horrible mistakes – sometimes with horrible consequences. We can’t change the past; what’s been done has been done. We are living in a fallen world and we still sin – one day that will change. But for now, we can make some choices in moving forward.

Our first step needs to be that of confession and asking God’s forgiveness – He will do just that (I John 1:9). Remember, God does chasten us, because He loves us and He is molding us to become more like Christ. We have to cooperate in that process. Paul’s desire in Phil. 3, is “to know Christ and the power of His resurrection.” That needs to be our desire, too, and being in the Word is an absolute necessity. Also, as a Christian, remember the Holy Spirit is in us; His power to live like Christ is in us. We need to rely on that power and claim all the promises He gives us.

Satan is a thief and a liar who steals, kills and destroys our joy, our peace, and our relationship with God, and would have us think, “I’m no good, I can’t be used of God, give up!’ But Jesus has come to give us life and life more abundant.” (John 10:10). He has better things in mind for us.

So, don’t quit, don’t give in to Satan’s lies and attacks. Do what Paul says, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on…forgetting what lies behind and pressing forward to what lies ahead…” Phil. 3:13,14 (ESL). With Christ’s help, we can do this.

And lest you think I’m perfect and am talking to just you (far be it) – I’m talking to myself!