Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. (Psalm 116:15)

There are two insights to this verse. First is that when a Christian passes from this life into eternity, God sees that as something so dear to His heart because of the glory and fellowship that a saint obtains through knowing Jesus Christ, but secondly and deeper is that when a Christian dies to his flesh and walks in the Spirit, God is so pleased because it is at that point where we truly die to sin nature and self. Self hinders us from hearing God and walking in His fullness. When we die to ourselves and live for Jesus it pleases Him. To come to the point of dying to the flesh is a mature state where which we can be mightily used by God for His glory as we exemplify Jesus Himself.

Sin will rob us of our future, cripple our present and keep our past in view. Since Jesus already took care of sin once and for all, why would we continue in it if it will hinder us in such a great magnitude? The answer, because we have not died to our flesh.

We have been justified by Jesus, now we need to crucify our flesh daily so that we can be sanctified continually. Everything God has done for us is a partnership. He did His part and we need to do ours. Work on dying so that you may live freely. Many might see this as a “works” or “religious” attitude, but it is not. It is an attitude of love. When you love God, you will obey Him. This obedience does not purchase us eternal life, it demonstrates His Spirit dwelling within us because there is a change that happens when the Holy Spirit inhabits a life. It may not be right away or dramatic but it is a change none the less.

As we get ready to celebrate the upcoming New Year, let us examine our lives to see what needs to be crucified. Ask the Holy Spirit to help guide and empower you to make the right choices. He is there, call upon Him.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints!

The Teaching Ministry of Michael Cannatello

TMMC