Read Romans 7:18

Coming from a life full of sin and gaining a new life in Christ, I can attest, like most of us, that sinning does not just stop. Our lives do not magically turn from what we once were to a life of perfection, sunshine and rainbows once we choose to follow Jesus.

I was 21 years old when the Lord saved my life from attempted suicide. By His grace I had a second chance and turned my life around. However, when I gave my life to Him, I had no understanding of what it meant to live for Jesus. All I knew up to that point in my life was religion. I turned to “doing the right thing” in order to “be holy”. I didn’t know what a fully surrendered walk with the Lord looked like because I was never taught or shown, but I knew I wanted it.

It wasn’t until I had a mentor come into my life and showed me that I saw what surrender of control looked like. She taught me God’s word and what it meant to be a fully devoted follower of Jesus and that it takes work and practice to begin living like a new creation.

It takes admitting that we cannot do it alone. It takes admitting that we are powerless in the fight without Christ.

You see, I attempted to take control, I attempted to walk the straight and narrow without any help from anyone. I quickly learned, this wouldn’t work.

Just like Paul writes in Romans 7, I continued to struggle. I continued to do things I don’t want to do and don’t do things I want to do. The difference is, if I continue to operate on my own power, then I will continue down a cycle of a constant struggle with no growth gained. However, the moment I surrender the power and control and realize that I can’t just “do” something to make it all better, I learn that I am powerless and find freedom in the grace of Jesus.

Admitting that you are powerless is such an important step of recovery with any sin struggle. 

Sin separates us from God and the only thing that brings us back to Him is Christ.  It is not us, our will, our works, or our way. We must admit we are powerless and surrender it all to God and allow the Lord to take over and take control in those areas of our lives where we struggle most. That’s when we will see victory.

What areas of your life are you still holding onto? What’s holding you back from admitting that you are powerless against the sin in your life? What step(s) do you need to take in order to trust in Jesus for ultimate regeneration in your life?

Kelly Lawson

…

ReGeneration is a ministry for people battling the storms of life. From emotional struggles to substance abuse, ReGen is a ministry for those who want to experience healing, recovery, community and accountability in the midst of their storms. Currently, ReGen meets on Tuesday nights (7p) at Grace Church in Wooster. We would LOVE to host you! Text “regen” to 3302649459 if you want more information or want to attend!