I Overcame ____________ Sin. How Do I Avoid a Relapse?

Sin

Temptations come from every side. No human being gets through life without battling sin. Even with our best efforts, we often relapse into the very sins from which we were rescued. Eventually you will learn that we can’t save ourselves. That’s why we need Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:57; Romans 8:37).

Jesus Strength

If you overcame a sin by your own strength, then that same strength will keep you from a relapse. But I also believe that if Jesus delivered you from that sin, then it will be His strength that holds you in victory. Jude 1:24 says, “Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy . . .” It is the power of God that keeps us from stumbling. It is the blood of Jesus that presents us blameless before God. So this would be a more accurate statement: “Jesus gave me victory over ________. How can I avoid a relapse?”

Relapse

We “lapse” into sin when we stop being vigilant. We become lazy, distracted, or forgetful of just how bad the consequences of that sin were. When we relapse into an old sin, it is because we have stopped feeding our spirits with the things that will keep us close to Jesus. We have begun to take for granted the gifts of freedom and forgiveness, which is the first move away from them. Spiritual connection to the Lord is vital. When we seek God with all our hearts, He is eager to be found (Deuteronomy 4:29; Jeremiah 29:13; 1 Chronicles 22:19). We seek Him by studying His Word. Learning what pleases and displeases God helps us to know God Himself.

Vigilence / Victory

I would make a list of all that sin has cost you. Loved ones it's hurt or may hurt, goals never reached, money wasted, and all the pain it has caused you. Then when you're feeling weak, re-read the list. Remember the pain, the despair, and the trap into which you had fallen. God has made us “more than conquerors” through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37). “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Sin is no game and there are real consequences.

We Pray that 2018 is your best year yet!