This past weekend at Salem, we explored an “old sin” of Abraham that resurfaced (see Genesis 12:10-20 and Genesis 20:1-18). Abraham probably thought this habitual sin had been buried. The lesson is that we must deal with our sin. When we fail to do so, hidden sin has a way of bursting our in our lives one day bringing sorrow and remorse.
So how do we overcome a bad habit? Statistics say it takes an average of 66 days (read more). But how do we overcome that habitual sin that we have dealt with for years? Here are four simple (not easy) Biblical steps that the Lord uses to lead us to victory in our spiritual lives.
Step One: Pray! In Genesis 20:17-18, we find Abraham humiliated and having lost his witness before King Abimilech. V 17 says, “Then Abraham prayed to God…” When we sin, we can be forgiven and restored. Regardless of our sin, God remains faithful (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Step Two: Confess my sin! “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (1 John 1:9-10). To confess means to say the same thing or agree with God about it.
Step Three: Condemn my sin! “Whoever conceals his transgression will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13). To “forsake” means to sent it away or to judge it. After we confess our sin, we must condemn it. (see Romans 8:13)
Step Four: Commit my life! When we remove a habitual sin, we must replace it. Total surrender to the Lord everyday. Beginning each day by confessing, condemning any sin that has crept into our lives. Yield to God for the day. (See Romans 6:11)
Finally, share your story of overcoming with someone. As we share how we have overcome by God’s power at work in us, others will be encouraged to walk through these steps in their own lives.
Share your story in the comments section or on social media!
