Each new year, resolutions are made, but seldom do they result in lasting change or improvement. Most resolutions are filled with good intentions. Each one is a hope that something will be different or make our lives better. They are decisions born out of need; the need to stop sinning.
Who among us has sought the advice of men to help us with our sin problem? I would venture that many have gone looking for a book that would tell how to have victory over a particular sin or sins. I know that I have bought numerous books, seeking answers for my own struggles with sin. I also know that when I finish reading I am left empty by the answers they contain. I’m just not that disciplined. I don’t seem to have the will power to follow the steps that are outlined. The methods in these books lack any power in my life. I find that they are filled with works-based formulas that rely on MY ability to carry them out.
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; — Titus 3:5-6 (KJV)
What did Jesus save us from? It is the penalty of our sin. He did not save us from our sins so that we would continue to be ruled by them. Rather he saved us so that we would be free from them!
Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. — John 8:34-36 (KJV)
When you commit a sin, it rules over you. You are not “right” until you can take care of the wrong you have done. An apology is given and forgiveness is sought. You repent and start over again. This is good and right. However, do you find that you are a servant to some sin? Is there something that always “gets you?” What is it that you can’t seem to have victory over?
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? — Romans 6:1-3 (KJV)
When you become a believer in Christ, you are killed with Christ. God’s remedy for sin is to kill you. At the moment you believe, you die. God tells us that at the moment of faith, you become a new creature.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)
Here is the key to stop sinning: it is faith.
Walk by faith that this is true. Believe what God has said. His word is truth and it is the only reality in the universe. God wants a relationship with you that is built on trust. You can have that because of what Jesus did. I know that this change in thinking will make a difference in your life.
God bless, Mike
Now faith is the substance
of things hoped for,
the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)