what then? are we jews any better off? no, not at all. for we have already charged that all, both jews and greeks, are under sin. [romans 3:9)
under sin
“under sin” – means to be under the complete control and power of sin.
the word here given by the Spirit to us – is that “all” are “under sin.”
the Spirit also says this is a “charge” that God has against us because of disobedience of his holy law.
in Christ, we have been made right before God because of the work of God, but our old nature (also called our flesh in scripture) still lives and wars in us against the Spirit of God in us. this old nature is corrupt and “under sin.”
for i know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. [romans 7:18]
for to set the mind on the flesh is death, [romans 8:6]
today, i would love for you to practice or even learn what we often call listening prayer.
that can look like – reading the text, asking the LORD a simple question and then being still and asking the Spirit to speak into what you have just read. the promise is – God speaks to those who wait on him and the Spirit will lead us to and or remind us of more of his word.
but for you, o Lord, do I wait; it is you, o Lord my God, who will answer. [psalm 38:15]
but the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that i have said to you. [john 14:26]
here are a few questions you can ask the LORD today as you practice listening prayer.
LORD,
- in what ways do i not believe you – that my old nature is fully corrupt and only leads me to death?
- in what ways have i been entertaining my flesh in recent days?
- in what specific way are you calling me to put an aspect of my flesh to death? to not entertain it, but also to pray its power and control is stopped?
- in what ways can i ask another to join me in this prayer of putting my flesh to death?
enjoy his presence.
he is with you.
be still and wait – he will speak.
~ john ryan