Slow Fade

Everyone wants the perfect church or at least the knowledge that the way they believe is sufficient enought to keep them on the "good" side of heaven. James (The brother of Christ) tells us that 26-27Anyone who sets himself up as "religious" by talking a good game is self-deceived. This kind of religion is hot air and only hot air. Real religion, the kind that passes muster before God the Father, is this: Reach out to the homeless and loveless in their plight, and guard against corruption from the godless world.
Last night I was relaxing after the Oklahoma-Oklahoma State game and I started to channel surf. I came upon a program about vampires and how the legends originated. There is a movie out right now that the younger generation is going crazy for that has a vampire as the hero, so I thought I would check it out. Pretty disturbing, when you hear some of the stories of true mass murderers that literally bathed in blood, drank it, sacrificed the weak and captive and all that other horrible stuff. Next I go down stairs and the Steven King movie "The Mist" is on. I only caught the last, but if you've seen the movie it's a pretty disturbing ending.
Of course my sleep was a mess and I literally woke up sick. My point is, we need to gaurd our minds from the way this world wants us to believe. WATCH WHAT YOU LET IN YOUR EYES AND HEART. I read on MSN today that 25% of workers with internet access look at porn while working. So many of us let things into our eyes and minds that just should not be there. Now I'm not saying I'm perfect, But I am learning to watch things that will build up my spirit and not tear it down. If you have Christ in your heart, you can overcome all temptation that comes your way. I know a lot of us may not be tempted by smut but the temptation to listen to gossip or to pick up a magazine on the hollywood lifestyle can tear down our spirit just as easily. Philipians8-9 says, "Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies". It takes practice, but the result is worth it. Guard your mind and God will fill it with true love and purpose. If you are having trouble in this area take a moment to repent and ask for strength. Pray something like this, "Father in Heaven I have failed you in the area of keeping my mind pure and seeking after the best in this world, I ask your forgiveness and ask you to help me to overcome the weaknessess in my life. I thank you Father that you hear me and are willing to help me develop into the man or woman who can be used for Your Glory. In JESUS Name I Pray, Amen!
Remember your mind is the battle field, so take the war serious!
God Bless
Your Brother in Christ
Mitch