How can Romans 6:18 guide us in resisting temptation? The Liberating Declaration of Romans 6:18 “You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” Set Free to Serve a New Master • Paul’s wording is literal: in Christ, the chains of sin are broken. • Freedom is not aimless; it immediately joins us to a new allegiance—righteousness. • Temptation loses its presumed right to command us because ownership has changed hands. Why This Matters When Temptation Knocks 1. Identity shift: “I am no longer sin’s property.” 2. Authority shift: the power that once ruled me is dethroned (Romans 6:11). 3. Purpose shift: every choice now serves a righteous agenda rather than a sinful one (Ephesians 2:10). Living as Slaves to Righteousness • Slaves obey; therefore, obedience is not optional but natural to our new identity. • Righteousness is not a harsh taskmaster; its yoke is freedom and joy (Matthew 11:30). • Daily choices confirm whose servant we are (Romans 6:16). Practical Ways Romans 6:18 Arms Us Against Temptation – Speak the reality: verbally remind yourself, “I’m free from sin; I belong to righteousness.” – Relocate your thoughts: fill the mind with what pleases your new Master (Philippians 4:8). – Present your body: consciously yield eyes, hands, and tongue to righteous purposes (Romans 6:13). – Expect strength: the Spirit enforces your freedom (Romans 8:2). – Replace old habits: put off the former self and put on the new (Ephesians 4:22-24). Supporting Scriptures That Echo the Same Truth • 1 Corinthians 10:13 — God provides the way of escape. • James 4:7 — “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” • Galatians 5:1 — “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” • John 8:36 — “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” • Titus 2:11-12 — Grace teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness. Encouragement for the Daily Battle Temptation may feel powerful, but Romans 6:18 states a fact stronger than feelings: sin’s rule is broken. Every time you stand against temptation, you are simply living out what is already true—free from sin, bound to righteousness, and empowered to walk in victory. |
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