As we move forward we look at the observance of restraint. One's ability to (on a small scale) not have that 5th or 6th Oreo. Or, on a larger scale, say those words we know will hurt, so we throw them out with no regard to their consequences. As with all these observances, to focus on the most obvious is to pluck the lowest hanging fruit. No one would argue that getting knee walkin' drunk is not good, and leads to destructive behavior. But focusing on the outside does not lead to lasting sobriety. Let me explain this further.
I truly believe our connection with the Divine helps us particularly in this place. We have endless holes and needs as human beings. We are actually quite needy! We require food more often than many animals in nature, we are dependent on our caregivers longer, and can justify childish behavior even as adults (that's an immature thing to do). We even recognize the fact that there is holiness in restraint. Religion has taught us this clearly. A popular saying that many in the previous generations used was, "cleanliness is next to Godliness". So much that when I was in a Bible study and someone was gossiping about her neighbor, the pastor had to let her know that is actually not in the Bible. I think Jesus would have called this a "white washed tomb" (Matthew 23:27-28). Yes, you are not out getting drunk, overconsuming, cussing, etc. but your heart is ugly on the inside.
No, this concept is much deeper and starts inside out first. Starting small with restraint is a discipline in and of itself, before you even choose to go without! This word means "walking in God-consciousness" (Yoga International). When we do this, we let go of cravings and obsessing on them. I think our connection to, and dependence on, the Holy Spirit is vital to live this out. We consider this vital as one of the fruits of the spirit is self control!
We'll chat more about this in my newsletter this week. If you want to join the conversation head to the home page and sign up for this week's newsletter. It comes out in a couple days so get on it!
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