Yesterday, Kristi, Bryson and I made a quick trip to Lubbock to pick up a few things. Before heading home, we stopped by one of our favorite eating establishments which specializes in smoked meats – OK, we went for barbeque. We were pleasantly surprised to find that we arrived on an evening offering all-you-can eat ribs. It has been a while since we indulged in ribs and so we decided to splurge.
You may be thinking, “A perfect end to a holiday.” I would normally agree with you but here is the catch. I cannot eat at this particular place without paying the price with indigestion and nausea several hours later. I am not sure if it is the barbeque or the fact that I eat until I can hardly walk. So sitting down to order, I knew the price that indulging would force me to pay. But I chose to pay the price for the enjoyment of the moment.
This reminded me of the struggle we all have with sin. Paul dealt with this struggle just as we do today. You can read about it here. The problem is that we are basically selfish and self-centered. We want our own way and we want it now – regardless of the price we may pay later.
Jesus never told his disciples that following him would be easy. Following him means putting our desires aside in order to give ourselves completely to living as Jesus lived – for others. I challenge you today to strive to deny yourself and take up your cross and follow Jesus.
Just as the barbeque was not worth the momentary pleasure – so sin is not worth the alienation from God that it causes. Stay strong today.
Clay in the Hands 
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