Serve the Lord. Romans 12:11
Every Christian is called to mortify sin. God gives us the Holy Spirit for this purpose, but this is our work and God has called us to it. Notice the language of the New Testament.
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature (Col. 3:5). Who is commanded to do this? We are.
You must rid yourself of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander… (Col. 3:8). Who is supposed to do this? We are.
Abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul (1 Pet. 2:11). Who should do this? We should.
Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes (Eph. 6:11). Who has the ability to do this? We do.
Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body (Eph. 4:25). Who is this meant for? Us.
Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called (1 Tim. 6:12). Who is called to do this? We are.
Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace… (2 Tim. 2:22). You already know the answer—this is meant for us to do.
The language of the New Testament is always active when it comes to battling sin. God has given you power. His Spirit lives within you. God has put you in a position where you can act. The Holy Spirit works in us and with us, but for the Christian, never without us. So take charge of the task to which God has called you and win some battles in your war against the flesh.
Have you been taking a more passive or active approach to your sin? Can you identify some specific examples?
