FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 8:12–13: Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Each believer’s responsibility is a positive one—to live each day in the control and power of the Holy Spirit. Each Christian is to refuse to follow the inclinations and desires of his sin nature. He is to deny the efforts of that nature to impose its lifestyle on him. The reason is that a sinful manner of life results in death. This does not suggest that a believer who sins will face eternal death in hell; instead, it means he will not enjoy his spiritual life. He will seem like an unsaved person and will be unable to enjoy the indwelling presence of the Spirit. Only by the Holy Spirit’s power can a believer put to death the sins of his former life. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. Titus 2:12
We have an obligation to respond to the grace of God by resisting the sinful behaviors of our past. When we deny our flesh, we can then embrace the joys found in living a life in the Spirit. The indwelling presence of His Holy Spirit gives us the power and purpose to live like a child of God. We honor our King by living a godly life, filled with His righteousness, for holy living. Deny the request of your flesh today.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
The flesh can only make deadly demands. The Spirit gives abundant life.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
O Lord, truly I am Your servant; You have loosed my bonds. Psalm 116:16
Dear Father, thank You for setting me free, to live for Thee…in Jesus Name. Amen.
1. Witmer, J. A. (1985). Romans. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
