Savoring Summer #12: White Admiral Butterfly

“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey its desires. And do not offer any parts of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God, and all the parts of yourselves to God as weapons for righteousness.” (Romans 6:12-13)

The word translated as “weapon” here can also be translated as implement, utensil, tool, instrument or armor.  The idea of a tool that is “offensive for war” fits well with the theme woven throughout Scripture of spiritual warfare and the idea of righteousness versus unrighteousness—but it’s interesting to insert the word that makes the most sense for you.  Perhaps you better understand the idea of tools being used to build a structure that is safe versus one that isn’t.  Or the thought of kitchen utensils being used to make unhealthy food versus food that nourishes.

In all cases, the exact same implements are used, but for entirely opposite purposes and outcomes.

We only get one body, that lasts only so long—and we have been given the freedom to make the choices about how, when, where and why we use it.  I find myself challenged by these verses to be more intentional about those choices, asking more often the searching question: will this action further the cause of righteousness…or not?

P.S. See this original post for info about this photo challenge and more about this reading plan I’m using this summer for the book of Romans (and I’d love to have you join in!)!