“Stop Sinning” Pt 1:
I don’t think any of us need a lesson on sin as we’ve all experienced it. In fact, it’s a safe supposition we’ve all tried very hard to stop, but found it easier said than done. Every believer has a target on their back and Satan fires at us every day. For many, they’ve wanted to put their life in Christ’s hands, but the forces of evil have such a grip they feel they feel it impossible to get free. This week you’ll receive information (some new – some old) on how to break the stranglehold of sin. Today’s advice comes from Dr. Joe Pettigrew, a pastor in Brownsville, Tennessee.
JUST STOP IT:
“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he WILL NOT let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, HE WILL ALSO PROVIDE A WAY OUT so that you can stand up under it” (I Corinthians 10:13).
Have you ever found yourself praying, Lord, I don’t want to sin anymore, but I can’t stop? You’re not alone. Struggling with sin is a universal human experience, and even the Apostle Paul wrote of his battle with it (Romans 7). Yet, this verse in I Corinthians assures us of something profound – God has already given us the strength we need to turn away from sin.
The question isn’t whether God will stand with us when temptation arises. He has promised that He will. The question is whether we will identify the “way out.” He faithfully provides. That “way” could be a sense of conviction, a word from scripture, or even a chance to remove yourself from the situation entirely. Through His Spirit, God nudges us toward righteousness, guiding us like a loving Father who desires nothing but the best for His children.
But how can we resist sin when it feels overwhelming?” You can start by fixing your eyes on Christ. When you’re walking with Jesus daily, His presence empowers you to say NO to sin and YES to holiness. We must take our struggles to Him in prayer and lean on His Word for strength and direction. Remember, a divine transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but progress comes with each step you take toward Him.
You’re not asked to fight in your strength. God has equipped you with His power through the Holy Spirit, and His grace is sufficient for your weaknesses. When temptation comes, remind yourself of who you are in Christ – redeemed, Loved, and set apart.
Your sin does not define you, but by the victory Jesus won for you on the cross. Today, lean into that victory. TRUST that God is faithful. You don’t have to bear this alone. TURN TO HIM. TAKE THE WAY OUT HE HAS PROVIDED AND WALK IN FREEDOM!
Pastor Carnes
