Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties and abominable idolatries. In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, and they malign you; but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God.
When Jesus came into the world, he brought with him that which is in heaven which is the Living Word. When Jesus ascended back into heaven, he gave his followers what he came with which is His Word. Now it is up to us to take that word into the world, but the world is dominated by Satan and his followers. Therefore to be like Christ, it is necessary to suffer as he did. This is why Jesus said that to be his disciple, I must take up my cross daily and follow him. This is my demonstration that I belong to him and love him like he loves me.
Daily Prayer: Lord Jesus, by your Spirit bring me into obedience with your word. Let me not think my own thoughts or say my own words. Instead let my thoughts and words originate from the Spirit that indwells me. In your holy name I pray Amen.
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