Embracing the Journey to Spiritual Freedom

The Apostle Paul profoundly captures the struggle at the heart of living a Christian life. He confesses, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do... As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me... For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out... Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it” (Romans 7:15-20).

Paul's words resonate with believers as they acknowledge the spiritual battle within. This struggle is not a sign of failure but a testament to the transformative work of Christ in our lives. While sin may try to persist, it is Christ who empowers us to overcome.

Jesus clarifies that living in sin makes one a servant to it, but He also brings the hope of liberation: “Whosoever commits sin is the servant of sin” (John 8:33-34). However, by turning to Jesus and surrendering our lives to Him, we begin a journey of freedom and renewal.

Upon accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, believers enter into a sacred battle to keep their bodies, the temples of God, spiritually clean. This process acknowledges that sin impacts every dimension of our being: spirit, soul, and body. The demonic influences that once manipulated us do not simply vanish. Instead, we are called to actively maintain our spiritual cleanliness and guard against the return of these influences.

Jesus warns of the persistence of unclean spirits: “When an unclean spirit comes out of a man, it passes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ On its return, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and dwell there. And the final plight of that man is worse than the first.”

Yet, this is not a message of despair. Instead, it is a call to vigilance and perseverance. By filling our lives with the Holy Spirit, immersing ourselves in God’s word, and remaining connected to the community of believers and faithful in prayer, we fortify our spiritual houses against any return of unclean spirits.

Remember, every struggle and every victory in this journey draws you closer to God. Embrace the process, lean on the strength of Christ, and rejoice in the freedom He has secured for you. “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” John 8:36 (NIV). You are not alone in this battle. The Holy Spirit empowers you, and your faith encourages you. Stand firm, and let your life be a testament to the transformative power of God's love and grace.