ST. PAUL SCHOOL OF LEADERSHIP

"Be ye followers of me as I also am of Christ." (I Corinthians 11:1)

(With Frank Eiklor, Christopher Lucey, Walter and Cecilia Contreras)

IT'S NO LONGER YOU-BUT JESUS IN YOU

LESSON 53

INTRODUCTION

Try to live a life pleasing to God using your own will and power. Just try! You will fail miserably and grow more discouraged and hopeless than ever. Human strength is not equal to satanic influence and temptation. Paul describes our dilemma perfectly: "For I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot perform it-I have the intention and urge to do what is right, but no power to carry it out." (Romans 7:18 Amplified Bible)

HERE COMES JESUS!

But here comes Jesus! The conqueror of sin and of Satan. Our champion. Hallelujah! What happens when we sincerely tell God we are sorry for our sins and invite Christ to rule our lives instead of us? A miracle occurs - it's called the new birth and it simply means from now on it's "Christ In you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27).

That incredible mystery brings new life. From now on, it will not be God on the outside trying to influence your life, but God on the inside directing your steps. What I mean is found in Philippians 2:13, "For it is God who works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure."

In English the word "w-o-r-k" has four letters that I wish to use to describe the wonderful work the Holy Spirit does in a life surrendered to Jesus. Though our Spanish words in Philippians 2:13 are different, the same Holy Spirit works His miracles in the same four ways. Here it is in the English word "w-o-r-k". Make this your prayer everyday.

W - "Will in me Your thoughts and plans for my life, Lord. I want nothing less-nothing else."

"For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord…" (Jeremiah 29:11 Amplified Bible)

O - "Order my steps to do your will, dear Lord."

"The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord…" (Psalm 37:23)

R - "Release in me Your supernatural energy for each thing you ask me to do."

"Whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working (Amplified "energy") which works in me mightily." (Colossians 1:29)

K - "Keep me in constant contact and fellowship with my power source - the Holy Spirit"

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."

(Romans 8:14)

"He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says…"

(Revelation 2:29)

CONCLUSION

Take time DAILY to read God's Word and pray. Ask the Lord DAILY to empty you of self and to fill you with His Spirit. Then go into your day believing that God will work His will in your life through word and deed. You will experience His personal and intimate presence more and more. There can be no greater joy!