And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness – Ephesians 4:24
An episode titled “Old School Loving” of the sitcom Martin provides a perfect illustration of the challenges that exist throughout a Christian’s spiritual transformation. While rendering premarital counseling to Martin’s girlfriend, Gina, Reverend Leon Lonnie Henderson is noticeably engaged in a battle to control his lustful tendencies from his former self. Though entertainingly hilarious, it nevertheless demonstrates apostle Paul’s conflict with his “flesh.”
Just as David’s willingness to expose his feelings makes him appeal to those of us who desire such transparency, the same applies to apostle Paul’s honest assessment of himself in Romans 7:15-19. That, regardless of his distinguishable intellect and religious stature as a leader, he battled inner turmoil, “sin that dwelleth in me.” His old nature continued to fight against his new nature. This is a war that no one is ever exempt from. However, we can celebrate those moments when we see progress on the battlefield.
While we’ll never be completely rid of those fleshly desires from before accepting Christ, we can nevertheless celebrate our rebirth in Christ by refusing to give them an inch. Have you witnessed the melting of your old nature? It’s truly a wonderful feeling.