Mortifying Sin - Part 2
As we saw last week from Romans 8:13, we are to be putting to death, by the Spirit, the deeds of the body. We could say, crucifying, destroying, mortifying sin in our lives, knowing that the principle of evil is still within us. (Rom.7:21) It is definitely a fight of faith, for Gal.5:17 states,"For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh." But we can have confidence that walking by the Spirit, we will have ample power of overcoming the flesh. 1Cor.10:13 is a perfect example of that, knowing the promises of God can be brought to mind, remember He has spoken, He has not left us promiseless, "No temptation has overtaken us but such as is common to man, and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide a way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it."
Sin has power in our life because it promises things. The Light of the world has exposed these to us through His word, we know by what He said what is good for us and what is not so good for us. We often love the darkness and what is there because our deeds are less likely to be exposed, but also because we love some things that the light does not permit. We often think that our future will be better because of it. For example, in Gen.3:4-5, the devil lies to Eve about her surely not dying by eating the forbidden fruit, but promises something too good to be true, that her eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil. Romans 5:12 shows us the result, "As through one man (Adam) sin entered into the world and death through sin, so death spread to all men, because all sinned."
Praying, fasting, watching, meditation, memorization, reading the word, all these have great effects on mortifying sin in our lives. We defeat with greater promises than what sin promises. Math.5:8,"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." It will take a lifetime of morning, noon, and night, cultivating a heart affection for Him, letting that word of His continually finding root in the good soil that the first root of hope began growing in. John Owen states, "He that stands still, and suffers his enemies to double blows upon him without resistancy, will undoubtedly be conquered in the issue." We need to stock up on suitable promises to help us overcome our besetting sins. Do not let your peace be carried away because of sin, let not your heart be burdened with sorrow with sin, let not your mind be overcome by trouble and fear by sin.
To close, John Owen closes for us, "So by the implanting and growth of humility is pride weakened, passion by patience, uncleanness by purity of mind and conscience, love of this world by heavenly mindedness, which are graces of the Sprit or the same habitual grace variously acting itself by the Holy Ghost." God's word is always for our good and often for our survival. It is what we must trust in 100% of our days. The Spirit is the overwhelming presence in us to accomplish that which concerns our holiness, that which without no one will see the Lord. (Heb.12:14.) John 1:9 reminds us of His great compassion, love, and forgiveness though when we come short of His glory," If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Christos Anesti, Alithos Anesti, He has risen, He has risen indeed!!
Elder Randy Slak
04/11/2023