So then, brothers and sisters, we are under obligation, 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. (Romans 8:12, 13)
Three enemies plague me—the world, the flesh, and the devil. It’s the one in the middle–the flesh–that is the most dangerous. The world and Satan are menacing to be sure, but neither of them can touch the real me in my spirit. Only my flesh can volunteer my whole being for hell.
I am my enemy. The battle of life is against my carnal nature. I fight the world’s injustice when I find it, and I’m zealous to attack that murdering lier, Satan. Now it’s time to stand in the power of Christ against my own waywardness.
Today, I admonish myself. Know your failures. Be strategic. Don’t compromise with your darker self.
Rather than more losses, commit this day to gain ground for Christ. When you lose a battle, don’t wave the white flag in resignation, but regroup and resume the war.
Most importantly, deploy the filling of the Holy Spirit. The world, the flesh, and the devil all melt in the presence of the Spirit of Jesus. Seek his filling early and often.
If Jesus has already died for my sin, then why is it important that I battle so fiercely? The answer is simple. Gains against the fleshly nature result in character. Character is the bullion of eternity. Why leave those gains on the table, unclaimed?
On this battleground, and against your carnal you, your entire future will be made or destroyed. Be bold. No matter how much you love your old self, rout him as the enemy he is.
Prayer: Present Holy Spirit, help me in today’s battle against myself.