Dubai conference with sister claire Andoun .pt 1b (+playlist)

For taking your time to study remain blessed. SELF DENIAL AND VICTORY OVER SELF FRIDAY FEBRUARY 24 TEXT: MATTHEW 16:24-26 Key verse: “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” Matthew 16:24. Self in the life of any human being either believer or unbeliever is a reigning monarch that does not recognize the authority of another king in earth or in heaven. Along with its ally, the flesh, it lusts against the spirit and makes obedience to God very difficult. Its agitations, ambitions and aspirations are always contrary to the word and will of God. When it is permitted to reign, it breeds carnality and sin. Self is the greatest cause of defeat, backsliding and lack of spiritual progress in the lives of all Christians. Therefore, every believer that would live an overcoming life and make steady progress in the faith must not only deny but dethrone and deal a death blow to self. The self-life is deceptive and destructive. When it is not controlled and crucified, it hatches character traits that are damnable. Lucifer was thrown out of heaven, Saul was rejected as king and many men and angels have incurred severe judgments from God due to the wicked aspirations and ambitions of the self life. When self is not dealt with, it always manifests fruits that are contrary to God and godliness. This is why it must be conquered. The self life is described as “the old man” and “the body of sin”. When the self controls one’s life, that person cannot be a true disciple of Christ. To live victoriously as a Christian, self must be dealt with decisively. As on the cross Christ died, we also must be daily spiritually crucified, for self to die. This is the only guarantee for real victory. Spiritual conquerors have a duty to themselves in their daily life. They must regularly examine themselves and whenever the self-life begins to manifest itself, it must be promptly mortified. Watchfulness over the activities of one’s heart and constant surrender to the will of God will ensure constant victory over the flesh. Have you denied yourself of worldly pleasures to serve the living God? Follow the steps of righteous men and enjoy God’s presence. To enjoy God’s presence, provision, promotion, power, progress and prosperity you must live a righteous and victorious life. Thought for the day: I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live. Song for the day: You are the Lord, that is Your name, You will never share Your glory with anyone… Bible reading for the day: Numbers 8-10 Mark 5:21-43 #horemow.