The Long Walk

​Meditation
Romans 8:3-4--What the law could not do since it was limited by the flesh, God did. He condemned sin in the flesh by sending His own Son in flesh like ours under sin’s domain, and as a sin offering, in order that the law’s requirement would be accomplished in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

Pastor Tony Evans notes that the word walk in Rom. 8:4 “refers to our entire way of life, and it has three concepts imbedded in it.”[1] First, it suggests a destination. I am headed directionally towards God’s will and glory. Next, it infers dependence. Just as I put all my weight on my feet to step forward, I put my soul's weight on God’s power. Third, it implies dedication.  I am walking—a perpetual motion of stride-taking to fulfill God’s calling.

I would add to Evans’ message three more points to consider. Walk involves opposition. Not a day goes by that my nature is not tested, and this will not cease until I have a redeemed body and am united with my Savior. This requires perseverance. I went down to the track today and ran a half mile. I was more exhausted than usual.  Lacking sleep and burden-weighted—even gravity seems stronger. Thankfully, Paul’s resolve inspires me: 
We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed. We always carry the death of Jesus in our body, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. (2 Corinthians 4:8-10)
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Finally, walk involves testimony! We love Jesus and inspire others to love Him; to leave the tattered grey to wear royal magenta; to jettison the world, and embrace worship. James exhorted, “Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises” (Jam. 5:13). The short walk is but a chorus in preparation for the long walk of eternal praise. That will be an elegant march in the presence of a phenomenal Father who gave us life to be with us. Something to think about . . . in reveration!
 
Inspiration
No time is more profitably spent than that used to heighten the quality of an intimate walk with God.—Dallas Willard in The Great Omission
 
©2022 Daniel York  ARR.  Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause.  If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box.  Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed, subject to the inclusion of this copyright notice.      
 
Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth.  (Holman CSB)


[1] The Tony Evans Study Bible.  (2017). Holman Bible Publishers.