Key Scripture:
For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. For he who has died has been freed from sin(Romans 6:5-8 NKJV).
We have just learned about our new identity in Christ, but how do we deal with the Old Man and our old habits? We need to know that we cannot do this in our strength. We need to discover what Christ has done for us. The good news is that Jesus took our Old Man and nailed him to the cross. Jesus has dealt with the old nature. Therefore, all I need to do is believe that the Old Man is dead and has no more authority to control our lives.
Here are two ways we can begin to deal with the old nature.
1. Set your mind on the things of the Spirit
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit (Romans 8:5 NKJV).
Where we focus is where we go! If we focus on the things of the flesh, we will go there. If we focus on the things of the Spirit, we will go there.
2. Feed your spirit
Make it a point to feed and spend time giving to the spirit. That's why Galatians 5:16-17 encourages us to walk by the Spirit so that we will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. In other words, starve your flesh. Don't feed it with the old sinful stuff it used to enjoy. Feed your spirit by reading the Word, worship and hanging around people that will encourage you in your walk with God.
Conversation Starter:
Where is your focus? What do you think about most of the day?
How are you planning to focus on the things of the Spirit?
Further Bible Study: Galatians 5:16-26; Galatians 5:24: Romans 6:14.