The billions of dollars in monthly credit card debt expose the same philosophy in personal economics. Unbridled spending leads to happiness, does it not? I need what is being offered if I am to be truly happy so I will buy now what I do not have money to purchase.
The same principle is evident all over our society – in marriages, computer use, job place ethics, and disasters like the subprime lending crash in the
Most importantly, the principle of throwing off all restraint is evident in our own hearts, when Christians sin and live for the glory of self above all else.
The truth is that restraint leads to freedom. And the abandonment of self-control leads to the worst slavery of all.
Sexually, there is no greater freedom than that enjoyed between a loving husband and wife. No comparisons, shared diseases to mask or false expectations – just a growing freedom to know and be known.
Monetarily, there is no greater freedom than living within one’s means. Rather than the guilt and remorse of owning a garage (or “storage unit”) filled with non-lifegiving toys, the Christian who carefully spends less money than he earns is free indeed.
Spiritually, we know the same. Denying self and putting sin to death by the Spirit leads to spiritual freedom “and that abundantly!”
Sometimes we need to remind ourselves of the obvious since our enemy is constantly washing the world with his lies – godly restraint leads to true freedom. Only the Devil will tell you otherwise.
Great post, Paul!
ReplyDeleteHow I need restraint. Thanks for the great reminder.
Mark
Hey Paul (Professor/Pastor Martin!)
ReplyDeleteI have just recently discovered the world of blogs...
thanks for writing things that are worth reading,
Georgie
Mark -
ReplyDeleteThanks. And thanks for your post today at The Blazing Center ("Centre" for Canadians). Actually, I read that earlier today and thought how in some ways we were addressing similar things... our lust for immediate pleasure makes us despise the small beginnings.
After our prayer meeting tonight I was talking with a brother who had a good opportunity to evangelize a co-worker today - and that he did. Only to be met by a rather rude and condemning comment. I urged him to persevere. I know a pastor who faithfully evangelized his town for over 50 years before seeing much fruit. Ah, but now he is reaping a great harvest as an old man!
I pray God keeps me faithful like that!
Georgie!
ReplyDeleteOn this blog, at TBS and in my church you can call me Paul. In my home, you must call me Dr. Martin. (You have to have seen What About Bob to really appreciate that stunning bit of humour!)
Great to hear from you! Drop by anytime! And call me Paul!!! My mom does.
What a great post and how true indeed! I plan to share it with my readers too!
ReplyDelete