Tough thing about growing as a Christian is that certain things are automatic and/or come easily, but certain others things we must fight hard for. The error is when we think that all thing should come easily if we are truly in God’s hands. However, all things will NOT come easily even to those who are genuinely converted. Certain things and areas, we must fight to death to overcome.

Consider this passage: It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them. (Psalm 44:3). 

On the surface, it may seem like the Israel’s victory was easy and automatic, but if you read the actual account, they went to battle with their swords. They fought valiantly. But the ultimate determination for the outcome of the battle lies in God alone. God USED sword wielding hands of the Israel’s army to bring about His will. But the army did have to wield their sword.

Consider also this passage: “Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.” 2 Tim 2:7

It says to “think”, which is a command for us to do something. And the result of that is that the Lord will give us understanding. That means understanding is not automatic. We have to do the act of thinking!

Certain habits, desires, sins, go away easily and automatically when we became Christians. That is by God’s grace. But certain other sins, habits, and desires remain. And we must fight valiantly to get rid of them. God uses our fighting as a means to bring about the sanctification.

So, fight your sin. Watch and pray that you will not fall into it.

PH