Romans 8:12–17
Do you understand the concept of indwelling sin?
It’s a concept that has caused many of us to stumble in our faith journey, leading to doubts and impure thoughts when we least expect it.
“So then, brothers and sisters, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh — “ (Romans 8:12).
All Christians find themselves looking down on others or engaging in ungodly conversations at times. But here’s the thing: you don’t owe anything to indwelling sin.
In the words of Paul, “for if you are living in accord with the flesh, you are going to die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live” (Romans 8:13).
It’s a choice we all face. Do we let our own desires and self take the lead, or do we follow the path of the Spirit, even when it’s not easy?
The Christian life often requires us to make difficult choices, like turning down promotions or enduring challenging church situations. But remember, when your time on this earth ends, no one will bow to you as lord. Every knee will bow to the real Lord.
Following the way of the Spirit may not always be a walk in the park. There will be moments when you have to walk away from impure conversations or face criticism from others. But that’s the Christian life, and Paul assures us that it leads to true life.
“For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons and daughters of God” (Romans 8:14).
If you choose to live in this way, you are a child of God. You’re not who you used to be. You’ve received a new Spirit, one that guides you toward God’s will. It’s a deep knowing that you belong to God, much like a child belongs to their father.
“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God” (Romans 8:16).
Do you have that Spirit within you? When tough times come, do you run away from God, or do you run to Him, even when you don’t fully understand? The indwelling of the Spirit always points you in a Godward direction. You can’t help but recognize what is good.
And here’s the incredible part: “and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him” (Romans 8:17).
As a child of God, you inherit blessings beyond measure. You become an heir of God, sharing in the same treasure that Jesus Christ enjoys for all eternity. What an extraordinary inheritance that is!
In the end, understanding indwelling sin and choosing to follow the Spirit’s lead is the path to becoming a true child of God, an heir of His magnificent blessings.
For a devotion on Romans 8:18 click here.
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