James 1:15:  “Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”

James lays out how sin develops in a person’s life:

  • lust (sinful desire) is conceived in the heart,
  • it gives birth to sin (it manifests itself in sinful behavior),
  • it causes damage in their life and leads to death.

The graphic below illustrates the process and the necessity of killing sin at its root:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When lust gives birth to sin, it presents itself through sinful behavior – words, actions, choices, neglect in relationships, etc.

Sin causes damage in your life and works death:  death of joy, peace, a clear conscience, relationships, etc.

Sin must be killed at its root:  lust, which is sinful desire.  When we look for ultimate satisfaction outside of Christ and trust, fear or love something more than God (Exodus 20:3), sin finds fertile soil and begins to take root.  If we crave and long for something and push God’s Word aside, we reap what we sow.

 

Μόνο ο Χριστός:  In Christ Alone

Pay close attention – daily – to the things you desire.  When you find yourself trusting, fearing, coveting or loving something more than God, remove the your sinful passions and desires (Galatians 5:24) and rest your satisfaction in Christ.

 

Posted in Sin, Spiritual Growth