Why would we revolt against sin? Paul has this advice for the Roman church. Romans 6: 12 Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.[1] Paul has just explained to the Romans that through Jesus, God has given us new life and a new nature. The Gospel is not just a new religion. It makes radical demands on every aspect of our lives.
Living the New Life
Now that we are following the way of Jesus, we are to yield to what God wants instead of what we want. God has given us free will; therefore, it becomes an act of our will to do what God desires. It is difficult to do this in our own power, so God supplied us with the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 5: 13 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature… 16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. [2]
The Holy Spirit comes into our hearts as we believe and trust in Jesus. Paul commented a few chapters later in this letter. Romans 8: 12 Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. 13 For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are childrenof God.[3]
How to Revolt Against the Control of Sin in Our Bodies
The new life sounds terrific, but how do we practically live it out? Here are some suggestions on how to yield to God’s will and not our sinful nature.
- Identify personal weaknesses.
- Recognize temptations in our lives.
- Confront sinful desires.
- Stay away from known sources of temptation.
- Practice self-restraint.
- Consciously invest time in good habits and service.
- Depend on God’s grace.
- Let the peace of God rule in your heart.[4]
May the Holy Spirit empower you to revolt against sin. To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/believe-which-master
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.
[4] Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., & Wilson, N. S. (1992). Romans (p. 121). Tyndale House Publishers.