CHANGING THE LEOPARD’S SPOTS

MEMORISE: ‘Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.’ (Rom 6:18)
READ: Jeremiah 13:22-27

Sin is a serious spiritual problem. Right from the fall of man at Eden, every generation of the human race became enslaved to sin. No matter how much a leopard tried, it can never change its spots. So is man helpless in dealing with sin. Romans 6:16 says: ‘Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?’

At the beginning of a new year like this, people resolve to stop particular sinful acts or habits. No sooner do they swear to start a new life than they find themselves returning to their vomit. The Apostle Paul had this to say: ‘For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not, but what I hate that I’ (Rom 7:15).

Do you find yourself in a similar situation? Are you still battling helplessly against sin? I bring you good news today. You can be saved and have victory over all sin. First of all, admit you are a sinner, for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Resolve never to return to sin (Prov 28:113). Invite Jesus into your heart as Lord and Saviour (Rev 3:20). That is the beginning of a new life. That you are born again does not mean freedom from temptations. In fact, the devil will surface just to condemn you and tell you nothing has happened to you. Old friends will surface to invite you back to your old ways. The difference however is that now, you have the spirit of God and therefore the power you lacked to say ‘No’ to sin (John 1:12).

Romans 6:14 says: ‘For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.’ When temptations come, resist them in the Name of Jesus. Avoid as much as possible the places, people and assignments that draw you back into your old lifestyle. The blood of Jesus is the only antidote to the problem of sin, so stay right under its cover (1 John 1:7-10). Then associate with fellow believers regularly, read the Bible and live  out its precept  daily. Your life will change.

ACTION POINT
Analyse all your friends on the basis of character, godliness and the type of influence they have on you. Continue with the ‘good’ and leave the ‘bad’ behind.