We should be ever thankful that the Lord has alerted us to the allotted task ahead of us. What is this task? It is to conquer self. In other words, we are to conquer our fallen nature. Just thinking about how cantankerous our characters are at times should give a little idea of the task ahead.
“So long as we are in the world, we shall meet with adverse influences. There will be provocations to test the temper; and it is by meeting these in a right spirit that the Christian graces are developed.” The Ministry of Healing, 487.
Have you been provoked lately? Are you staying on task, your allotted task? This task is impossible while attempting to tackle it alone and you will have a losing battle on your hands! The good news is, if we are willing to listen, “Christ dwells in us, [and] we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheerful amid frets and irritations. Day by day and year by year we shall conquer self, and grow into a noble heroism.” Ibid.
You see, “0ur allotted task … cannot be accomplished without
- help from Jesus,
- resolute decision,
- unwavering purpose,
- continual watchfulness,
- and unceasing prayer.
“Each one has a personal battle [with self] to fight. Not even God can make our characters noble or our lives useful, unless we become co-workers with Him. Those who decline the struggle lose the strength and joy of victory.” Ibid.
Are you ready to gain the joy of victory over self through Jesus Christ or will you join the multitude who decline the struggle and remain cantankerous? I would hope that each one of us will go forward to victory. If we lose this victory, we lose out on eternal life. The only thing that we can take to heaven is our character. We must accomplish our allotted task!
Father in heaven: I ask you to unite with me over the struggle with self because I do not wish to remain cantankerous. Save me from my self and in the name of Jesus I choose to be unwavering in my purpose to accomplish the allotted task You have given to me and to win the battle through a resolute decision and Your grace, which is truly sufficient. I resolutely choose to serve Thee. Amen.