Before Christ, we were slaves to sin. After Christ, we are set free from the power that sin had over us. We ARE set free. Yet if we are not aware of this change in relationship with sin, we continue to fall for its lies. Instead of holding on to the power and authority Jesus has now given us, we continue to live apart from the Holy Spirit Who grants us those gifts. We lay down our power and allow the sin to control us. We give up our authority and let sin rule over our actions. Do we see how vital it is to understand that Jesus has changed ALL our relationships?
Listen to this powerful excerpt from Dr Stanley: “When Christ died on the cross, He changed our relationship to sin. Before our salvation, we were slaves to sin (see Rom. 6:20). It was as if Satan had a big collar around our necks with a leash on it. Whenever he pulled our leash, we followed. We might have fought back at times to show our independence, but eventually, he had his way. Practically speaking, we were slaves to certain of our natural desires. When we trusted Christ as our Savior, we were placed into Christ. At that point in time we were set free from slavery to sin (see Rom. 6:22). The leash was cut. We no longer had to give in to the temptations of Satan or the desires of our sinful flesh. But nobody told us! So when temptation came along, what did we do? What we had always done—we gave in.” (p90)
I am going to allow us the day to meditate on this powerful truth from this godly man! Listen to it again and I will see you tomorrow…
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
April: Living the Resurrected Life: “The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Dr Charles Stanley
<>< Peace, Diane
