Rom. 8: 5-7, 11-13

A life that is responsive and submissive to the desires of the flesh is not an option for the believer (Rom 8:13). Our salvation unto life also kick-started the process of death to the flesh and the world (Rom.6:2,11, Gal.2:20, Col.3:3). Hence, believers exist in a “death in life” paradox. This state is one in which, though we are alive physically, we are to be dead to the demand for sin in our flesh (Col.3: 5). It is a quickened state where passions of the flesh are crucified and replaced by a desire for and responsiveness to the Spirit (Rom 8:10). The challenge for many believers is how to experience this genuine transformation. The simple answer – the Holy Spirit.

God’s ability to anticipate and answer our questions is amazing. The Bible instructs that the deeds of the flesh be mortified through the Spirit (Rom 8:13). This means the only way to “kill” sin in our flesh is through the assistance and leading of the Holy Spirit. The Bible also makes it clear that the Holy Spirit is the one that “quickens our mortal body” (Rom 8:11). An easy inference is that a believer’s struggle with sin after salvation stems from limited fellowship with the Holy Spirit. It is also important to mention the Bible refers to the Word of God as the sword of the Spirit (Eph. 6:17). Hence the Word of God is the weapon (or sword) the Spirit utilizes to execute the process of sin mortification in our lives.

While we cannot be idle or indulgent and expect victory over sin, we must also realize that by our own effort or discipline only we cannot be victorious. Our victory is, however, certain when we fellowship with, engage the help and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit (Phil 2:13, Rom 8:13).

Prayer Point – Father, I receive grace to yearn, to seek after and to thirst for your presence above all else in Jesus name. I receive grace to mortify the deeds of the flesh and to be continually conscious of the leading of the Holy Spirit in Jesus name.