Me and Captain D’s

Posted on Aug 23, 2016 in Uncategorized |

Last Sunday I was ministering from Romans 8:1-8, especially vv.5-8 where St. Paul says those who live according to the sinful nature “set their mind” on what that nature desires and those who live according to the Spirit “set their mind” on what the Spirit desires.

I illustrated this truth in a practical way.

I said I have to wipe the drool off my chin when I drive past Captain D’s.  I LOVE fried seafood.  I know they serve other stuff – but my flesh craves anything fried! When it’s time for lunch “I set my mind” on that which isn’t good for me. Practice moderation, you say. Great advice. I don’t want moderation and my taste buds have been properly trained for clams and shrimp.  It would sure help if their entire menu wasn’t so affordable!  It’s not my fault!

Now St. Paul isn’t talking about fried shrimp.  He’s talking about the sinful nature that craves and “sets its mind” on what is sinful.  Counselors might call it “acting out”. The truth is people do things they don’t really want to do because they feed the flesh and more importantly – they set their mind to thinking about and acting on that which is harmful, damaging, and damning to their relationship with God.
 
Christ-followers have to think rightly so they can please God.  There ARE things we cannot do if we want to do what the Spirit of God desires for us. For individuals who are pre-Christians or don’t want a saving relationship with God, Paul’s words help them better understand why they do what they do.

Back to Captain D’s.

I’ve lost about 10 lbs. primarily by walking and eating right – yes, even at Captain D’s. I’ve started eating a baked potato (butter only), one skewer of grilled shrimp, and unsweet tea.

Since I know everyone behind the counter on a first name basis, the manager put an extra skewer on my plate on Tuesday. More is good.  I accepted it as a reward for doing the right thing.

Then the lady sitting at the table next to me got her dozen fried shrimp and fish dinner. She had too many to eat so she offered an older couple near me over half of her shrimp!  I’m sitting there hoping she will offer me some – the craving was working in me at full throttle.

She didn’t.

Here I go again – practicing on Monday what I preach on Sunday.

 

Mark