Many Christians believe that sin is an unavoidable part of life. While it is true that we live in a world corrupted by sin, that does not mean we must live in bondage to it. Jesus has given us everything we need to live in full victory.
Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. — John 8:36
Sin should never be normal for a believer. In fact, if a person does not feel grief when they sin, it is a serious indication that they may not be truly saved. However, victory over sin is not automatic, even after being born again. God will help, strengthen, and guide us, but overcoming sin requires our participation.
Some might say, “I am saved by grace.” While that is true, if salvation does not bring transformation, we must question how much that grace has truly impacted us. But overcoming sin is not about sheer willpower—our victory comes through a process that begins with being born again.
The First Step: Being Born Again
In his natural state, man is completely infected by the "sin virus." Because of this, overcoming sin on his own is impossible—there is nothing within him strong enough to fully resist the desires that sin creates. He might try, and with strong willpower, he may be able to suppress many sinful urges. But even if he succeeds, the temptation to pride— which is also a sin—lurks just around the corner.
If a person is not born again, the battle against sin becomes a relentless struggle against himself, one he is ultimately bound to lose. Therefore, the first and most essential step to victory is to be born again.
I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God. — John 3:3
When a person is born again, their spirit is completely renewed (2 Cor 5:17). This transformation is entirely the work of God. The "old man" dies, and a "new man" is born—a new creation that is holy and untouched by sin. In fact, this renewed spirit cannot partake in any sinful act. Because of this, a born-again believer will experience an inward protest whenever they engage in sin.
Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. — 1 John 3:9
Even though your body is part of God’s creation, it was not born of God — It was born by your mother. However, if you have been born again, there is a part of you that was not born of your mother—your spirit. This is the eternal part of you, and God is deeply zealous for it (Jam 4:5).
Though our body and soul are still affected by sin, God keeps our spirit pure in Christ. This is why we can walk in holiness, even when we stumble.
We know that whoever is born of God does not sin; but he who has been born of God keeps himself, and the wicked one does not touch him. — 1 John 5:18
Body, Soul, and Spirit
Because man consists of three parts—body, soul, and spirit—God's solution to sin is threefold:
Our spirit is our life-source, and God's solution for it is to be born again. This transformation happens instantly and is entirely God's work.
The soul, which consists of our thoughts, will, and emotions, must be renewed through God's Word. As this renewal takes place, our thoughts, will, and emotions begin to align with our spirit, which is always in perfect harmony with God.
Our physical body enables us to function in the material world. Like the rest of creation, it is affected by sin and subject to decay. In the resurrection we will receive a new body, but for now, God's solution is for the body to be "crucified"—meaning it must be kept under control and not rule over us.
Renewing the Soul
Though our spirit is instantly made new, our soul—our mind, emotions, and will—requires continual transformation. This is an ongoing process. In other words, you cannot receive a renewed mind simply by having someone lay hands on you; it is something that must develop over time.
The Bible instructs us to use God's Word as the template for renewing our minds. This means replacing old thoughts and habits with those that align with biblical truth.
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. — Romans 12:2
Before we were saved, our spirit was separated from God, and our soul was conformed to the patterns of this world. When the desires of the flesh arose, there was no resistance beyond our own human willpower—but willpower alone is not strong enough to conquer sin.
However, when our spirit is reborn by the Spirit of God and our soul is renewed by the Word of God, our thoughts, will, and emotions are transformed. As a result, the desires of our sinful flesh lose their power over us.
Three important factors in renewing the mind
Meditate on the Word of God
Many people read the Word of God, but reading casually is not the same as meditating. When you meditate on God's Word, you allow it to sink deeper into your heart and mind. To meditate on the Word means to take a passage, ponder it, and reflect on its meaning by reading it repeatedly—allowing it to shape your thoughts and become a part of your life.
We see the importance of knowing the written Word of God in our battle against the enemy when we read how Jesus confronted the devil in Matthew 4. Jesus did not rely on His position as the Son of God, even though it had just been confirmed through a supernatural experience. Instead, He used what Paul later described as the "sword of the Spirit"—the Word of God (Eph 6:17). Each time the devil tempted Him, Jesus responded with "It is written..."
Many Christians look to their supernatural experiences as proof of their spiritual maturity and strength, but the true measure of spiritual strength is obedience to the Word of God.
… I have written to you, young men, Because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, And you have overcome the wicked one. — 1 John 2:14
Choose godly friend
It does not help if you spend time alone meditating on the Word of God, if you afterward hang around people who talk dirty, promote sinful living and constantly discourage godly living. Then whatever good you have gained in your private time with God will be annulled by the influence of you friends.
Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.’ — 1 Corinthians 15:33
They say friends are like elevators—they either lift you up or bring you down. This is true, and another saying reinforces it: "Show me your friends, and I’ll tell you who you are."
When you sow the Word of God in your heart, water it with prayer and praise, and cultivate the right environment by surrounding yourself with godly friends, the seed planted in your heart will grow and bring transformation in your life.
Commit to a life of prayer
As long as we are on earth, we live in a world that the Bible says “…lies in the power of the evil one…” (1 John 5:19). This means we are in enemy territory and need supernatural guidance to navigate the snares of the devil, who is a cunning master of deceit. That is why living a life of prayer is essential to overcoming sin and temptation.
In The Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray: “…lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one…” (Matthew 6:13) and He also warned His disciples:
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. — Matthew 26:41
Conquering sin and temptation is not a matter of willpower—it requires spiritual power. This power is found in our time of prayer.
But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit… — Jude 1:20
Crucifying the Flesh
When it comes to our flesh, the Bible offers only one solution: crucifixion. This does not mean physical crucifixion but rather putting to death our sinful passions and desires by refusing to give them a place in our lives.
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. — Galatians 5:24 (NLT)
As long as we are in this body, sin will always be lurking. This means that as long as we are on earth, we must take the danger of sin and temptation seriously. Many mighty men of God have fallen because they did not recognize the seriousness of sin.
Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. — 1 Corinthians 10:12
Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master. — Genesis 4:7 (NLT)
To walk in victory, we must apply the principles described above. When we do, we can experience victory over sin and temptation—not through our own willpower, but through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit within us.
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 8:13
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 8:13
Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. — Galatians 5:16
The Path to Victory
Our Spirit Must Be Born Again
This is an instant transformation and the foundation of our victory.
Our Soul Must Be Renewed
Renewal is a process that requires our participation through reading God’s Word, choosing godly influences, and committing to prayer.
Our Flesh Must Be Crucified
The flesh is subdued when we walk in the Spirit and apply God’s Word.
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