Can I stop sinning?
Hebrews 10:26,” If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left,”
1 John 1:8,” If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”
Romans 6:6,” For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin”
The Bible teaches that the Christian must come by faith, repenting of his sin willing to follow Jesus in a serious and sincere manner. It reveals the genuineness of his belief. To continue in blatant sin reflects a lack of repentance. However, the Bible also teaches that, though weakened, sin is still in us and we must sincerely confess our sins for forgiveness and renewal. Some sins are accidental and some are out of stubbornness and weakness. So, we must realize that obedience in this life will be an ongoing struggle. Romans 7:15 explains,” For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate”. Our sin nature is still active and must be dealt with daily. Genesis 4:7,” sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it." The Bible teaches that struggle develops perseverance which brings growth in our journey to perfection. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to help in our struggle. He also gave us the Church, the Bible, and the ability to go to God directly in prayer.
Church – “Do not be misled, bad company corrupts good character”. 1 Corinthians 15:33. The importance of membership in a biblically based Church cannot be over emphasized. A Church that seeks to glorify God by taking His word seriously and that shows evidence of following it. A Church dedicated to providing experienced and qualified teachers for understanding. We need our Church family for education, to encourage perseverance , and to unite with other Christians in ministry.
Bible study –How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your Word”. Psalm 119:9 We need to know and understand God’s word for living. We can’t obey what we don’t understand. Biblical knowledge doesn’t come by accident. It takes time and work. God’s revealed will comes through His word and it is our guide in all things. Bible study keeps Gods instructions constantly in our thoughts.
Prayer – “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”. 1 John 1:9 Dedicate time to pray regularly. We must acknowledge our sin. Share your praises, requests and confessions with God. God does not call us to pray and then not listen to us. You are his child. Pray for strength. Pray with expectation.
These are the tools, along with the Holy Spirit, that men and women of faith use in their struggle to obey God. Not sinless, but determined in the fight to sin less. Jesus lastly promises. “and I am with you always". Matt 28:20.
Evangel Church PCA –Alabaster - All are welcome!
205-664-0889 evangelchurchpca.org - Live webcast