30 Days for the Life You Prayed for by Edward VentersSample

As far back as I can remember, my grandfather has spoken these words to me. He challenged me to make the right decision and always do the right thing. Today is going to be a self-reflection segment. We will have these periodically throughout the thirty days. This will be a critical time to understand yourself. The current place you’re in is because of your actions for however long you’ve been accountable for your own well-being.

Some call it the butterfly effect: every action has a reaction or consequence; “We reap what we sow.” Ralph Waldo Emerson said the Law of Cause and Effect is the “law of laws.” So, what has gotten you here to this point in your life? What are some key decisions you have made? What are some daily decisions you make that are futile or non-conducive to bettering yourself? We want to eventually eradicate these wasteful actions, but first, we have to be able to identify them (1 Corinthians 13:11). Each decision we make matters, the biggest lie the devil can tell you is that it’s okay, one time won’t hurt, or just a little never hurt anyone. Be clear on the fact that the enemy manipulates and coerces us into sin. We have to identify this and speak against it. Controlling your thought life is the key to a disciple (disciplined) lifestyle. We, as humans, have only so much willpower. We have a sin nature, but once we implement Christ, He gives us authority over everything the devil throws at us (Luke 9:1).

Now write down some things that you know are wasteful. Maybe sitting on the phone with your friends or watching too much of that TV show. Only you and the Holy Spirit know what is unnecessary in your current life. If you don’t know or can’t recognize these traits, pray and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. He will “direct your paths.” The Bible clearly tells us this and makes it a promise.

John 16:13 (NKJV) says, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.”