The first question we should ask ourselves is this: Am I fighting against sin together with Christ, or am I trying to overcome it alone?
Victory over sin consists not only in refraining from committing it, but also in being set free from its power through Christ. Jesus says: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
Think of two people facing the same temptation. Neither of them commits the sin, but one of them wishes to commit it, while the other no longer desires to live in that sin. Although both refrain from sin, one is still a slave to this sin, while the other is free from the desire to sin.
True freedom consists not only in no longer sinning, but also in no longer having the desire to commit that sin.
But why am I not yet set free ?
Often, this happens because there is a contradiction between our prayers and the choices we make. We pray for a few minutes: “Lord, deliver me from this sin!”, but then, through our actions, we tell God: “I like this sin and I want to continue practicing it.”
With our lips we ask for deliverance, but through our choices we allow sin to remain.
The Bible urges us: “Be doers of the Word, not hearers only.” (James 1:22)
God calls us to be honest with Him and with ourselves. It is not enough to ask Him to change us; we must be willing to give up what holds us captive. His grace does not replace our responsibility, but helps us take the necessary steps toward change.
So, ask yourself this question: Do I truly want to be set free, or do I just want to escape the guilt I feel after I have sinned?
Do not fight alone
Remember that you do not have to fight alone. The Apostle Paul writes: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
Be honest with God, put your life in order, and make choices in line with your prayers. Do not rely solely on your own strength, but seek victory in Christ.
« Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. » (Galatians 5:16)
