"Struggle of Sin"

  Too many treat sin as something trivial. Sometimes there are those who belong to Jesus that just can't understand how sin can so easily take some down. Smugness sets in and we really question the motives and intentions of those who seem to be overwhelmed time and time again by sin. Too much at ease with sin and many stroll along with their hands in their pockets while thinking they have arrived spiritually. To much pouring over sin that it is almost impossible to beat sends people reeling into anxieties and depression.

  We need to realize that sin is a very powerful and deeply rooted force in lives of humans. But can it be overcome? I mean, my sin that seems to take me down, can I overcome it if it is so powerful? Yes indeed. Just look at the cross and see where sin was defeated completely. There is great hope! To give others the impression that sin is an easy 'fix' can send them off into depths of hopelessness. Some really struggle in their battles. They see others looking with scorn at them and it takes its toll. Sin is tough! Sin is a powerful enemy! But sin is not the Master!

  You belong to Jesus and He beat sin and its consequences. There is where your faith is placed. Our salvation, the covenant of the forgiveness of all our sins continues to be an on-going process. When we were united with Jesus in baptism, we changed Masters. Why? Because Master Jesus defeated sin for us. That doesn't mean sin will never try to find its way back into your life. It doesn't mean that sin will no longer try to bring you under its influence and mastery. It means holding to Jesus while growing in Him. We have been saved and we continue to be saved. Peter speaks of growing "in respect to salvation." (I Pet. 2:2) How are we to do that? By longing, like new born babies, the pure milk of the word! It means learning to put off the things that will entangle you and that sin uses to control you. Yes, you will stumble but sin will not master you! Quickly we confess to the Lord and embrace Him and sin is washed clean while strength is given upon our failure. We stand more and more with Jesus humbly submitting. Strength comes from Him, not us. We find ourselves overcoming anger issues, immoral issues and the strength the Lord gives begins to have a greater and greater effect. One day you find yourself that the things in which once caused you such difficulty are now nothing but a faded memory. Praise and thanksgiving are given to the Lord and Savior. Help those in sin! Encourage those struggle with sin that they can overcome! Sin has died and Jesus sees to that. Rejoice in your salvation!