The Good News In 10 DaysSample

Day 7

One-Minute Devotion

One Thought, One Prayer, One Scripture

When Jesus died, sin’s stranglehold on the human will was broken. Now the only power sin has in the believer's life is what he gives it. Dr. G. Earl Guinn relates a personal incident that illustrates this truth. He writes, "Several years ago while spading in my yard, I inadvertently disturbed a snake that had hibernated for the winter months. He came racing out to do battle with the intruder. Stepping aside, I took aim with the shovel point and severed the snake's head from his body. Even though the body was headless, the serpent writhed on the ground for some time before becoming still in death.” 

On the cross our sinful nature, the "old self" was crucified with Christ, that is its head was severed from its body. What we experience when temptation comes is simply the death throes of the old man. In truth, his power has been broken. He is defeated, although not yet fully destroyed. No longer does he sit enthroned on the seat of power in our lives. Now he is on the outside begging to be restored to his former place of power.

Lord Jesus, thank you for evicting the old man of sin from the throne of my heart. By the power of Your Holy Spirit I will deny him. In Your holy name I pray. Amen.