1. Recognize the reality of remaining in sin (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...”
A. We are new in Christ but sin has not been eradicated, sin is no longer our master.
B. Temptation is not a sin, Jesus was tempted yet did not sin.
2. Rid yourself of all forms of sinfulness. (Colossians 3:7-8) “You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these…”
A. Positionally this has already been done but practically this needs to be continual action.
3. Realize you are in a spiritual battle (Galatians 5:17-18) “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”
A. Being in Christ did not end the battle, it intensifies the battle with the flesh, the world and the devil.
4. Remain close to God and his word (James 4:7-8) “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
A. There are boundaries we can erect but we also need a spiritual defense.
B. We need to deal with temptation like Jesus did. “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11
5. Rekindle your prayer life (Philippians 4:6) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
A. Pray in every situation. Pray not to be tempted and pray to resist temptation.
6. Rely on the Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:16) “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
A. We are to continually be "walking by the Spirit." The Holy Spirit is at work in us, and we will see progress as we yield and walk by the Spirit.
7. Respond in obedience. (James 1:22) “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
A. Trust and obey. Partial obedience is not obedience.
B. Remember forgiveness does not remove consequences. We reap what we sow Gal. 6:7-8