For we wrestle not against flesh and blood,
but against principalities, against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this world,
against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Ephesians 6:12
INVISIBLE WARFARE 101 - PERRY STONE
Genuine Repentance
Dr. Charles Stanley
Because we desire to be more like Jesus, we make resolutions, ask Him to
help us, and try to behave differently. Yet despite our best efforts to do
things God's way, we slide back into old habits. Frustrated, we may ask Him,
"Why can't I change?" The reason is, overcoming sinful attitudes and behaviors
starts with genuine repentance, which has three aspects.
Conviction. The Holy Spirit will reveal the areas in which we've sinned and
convict us of wrongdoing. Through Scripture, the Spirit shows us God's standard
and what needs to change. Repentance begins with understanding where we have
gone astray.
Contrition. The next step--grieving over our iniquity--is followed by
confession to the Lord. Genuine sorrow arises from the knowledge that we've
sinned against Him. In contrast, human unhappiness often comes from being caught
misbehaving. Other times we are miserable because of where our choices led us,
or feel shame that people know about our sin. True contrition is followed by
humble confession.
Commitment to act. Real repentance is complete when we wholeheartedly
pledge to turn from our old behavior and move toward righteous ways. God knows
we won't live perfectly, but He looks for a surrendered heart that diligently
seeks to obey Him.
Paul used strong language when telling us to turn from iniquity: "Put to
death... whatever belongs to your earthly nature" (Col. 3:5 niv). What sin are
you struggling to overcome? Have you genuinely repented, committing to turn from
it permanently? Let the Holy Spirit empower you to change.
For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr.
Charles Stanley, please visit www.intouch.org.
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