The old self-sin must die, and the only instrument by which they can be slain is the Cross.
– A.W. Tozer.
Often people think that Christians think highly of themselves. Little do they know that there is a constant internal battle within Christ-followers. The struggle between flesh and spirit. Likewise, the fight between the old sinful person and the new person, created by the Holy Spirit.
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the Book of Numbers 33:55. Please, read our recent devotional from the Book of Hosea 6:3: Jesus Christ Is Sure To Come Again
Recognizing the old sinful you
One can start driving out the old sinful ways when one recognizes that he or she is sinful. However, there will be conflicts in your mind that tell you otherwise. We often rationalize that we are not ‘all bad’. But claims, sometimes, without thinking twice that we are good people. Are you a good person?
Moses told the Israelites that they should drive out the Canaanites from the promised land. This command is according to God’s will. Canaanites were pagan worshippers and were practicing unholy practices. And God does not want that the Israelites to follow their abominable acts.
Striving to drive out the old sinful self
Repentance is our first step in driving out our old sinful self. And we cannot do this without the help of the Holy Spirit. Paul reminded us that the times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent (Acts17:30).
We then should place our faith in Jesus Christ, who is the Only Way to the Father. Moreover, Jesus promised that whoever follows Him will have a comforter, the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, this is the same Holy Spirit that will change our hearts of stone to flesh. Put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24).
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- Have you acknowledged your sins?
- What do you say when people tell you you are a bad person?
- How do you rationalize your behaviour?
- Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
- What is hindering you from this?
- How do you follow Christ?
Related Posts
- The Spirit Delivers from the Power of the Flesh
- How To Start The Year Right
- Recognizing Jesus as the Messiah
- Do You Carry Humility Wherever Life Takes You?
- A Good Shepherd(Opens in a new browser tab)
- Do You Carry Humility Wherever Life Takes You?(Opens in a new browser tab)
Prayer
Lord, I admit I am a sinner. I need and want Your forgiveness. I accept Your death as the penalty for my sin and recognize that Your mercy and grace is a gift You offer to me because of Your great love, not based on anything I have done. Cleanse me and make me Your child. By faith, I receive You into my heart as the Son of God and as Savior and Lord of my life. From now on, help me live for You, with You in control.
In Your precious name, Amen
(from Corsswalk.com)
