What do you think of when you hear that someone has mastered something? I think practice, practice, practice. Reading Genesis 4:7 in several different versions I found it both challenging and encouraging. The NIV states: “Sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.” The ESV says: “Sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.” The Message version is: “Sin is lying in wait for you, ready to pounce; it’s out to get you, you’ve got to master it.”
As I think about the demand or command to master sin it feels like a monster too big for me to confront. I don’t want to open the door at all; I don’t want to master it but to hide from it. Maybe it won’t get me if I turn off the lights and pretend I’m not home, forever. But, I was encouraged by the CJB which states: “Sin is crouching at the door–it wants you, but you can rule over it.” One thing is certain; sin is waiting at the door. While sin is a very serious issue, in fact, the most serious issue in our lives, the command to master it may be intimidating. But the declaration: “You can rule over it,” is empowering to me.
Have you ever heard someone excuse their actions with the statement, “The devil made me do it?” I used to say that myself but that doesn’t make it true. The devil cannot make you do anything. You always have a choice.
Jesus demonstrated for us how to use the weapon created to crush sin under our feet. Matthew 4:1-11 revealed the weapon as Satan tempted Jesus to sin–the Tanakh or the written Word of God. Have you received training in the proper use of the Word? Father will use this weapon Himself during the final days: “Out of his mouth went a sharp double-edged sword.” (Revelation 1:16) “See the Word of God is alive! It is at work and is sharper than any double-edged sword.” (Hebrews 4:12)
If you have received the Rauch HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) you also have access to the sword. It’s the last piece of war equipment we are instructed to take with us. “And take the helmet of deliverance along with the sword given by the Spirit, that is, the Word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17)
The battle is here and now. Prepare yourself–a weapon that sharp may slice the one who uses it if not handled properly. Let Father train you in how to handle his Word correctly.
Yes! He is teaching me!
Train me Almighty God!🤗♥️♥️♥️👏
Temptation to sin is like the deciples trying to resist falling asleep. Some have fallen asleep while driving. That is not a willing participation. No one in their right mind would go to sleep while driving, but alas, it happens….
If we could choose to never sin, the righteousness would’ve come by the law and Jesus died in vain. The School master teaches us that we have no hope of success until we have been fully translated into fleshless/sinless bodies.
God bless you Linda, thank you for these insights.
Thank you Chuck, your analogy is very interesting and very true. I myself can fall asleep while driving.
It’s only the grace of the Lord that keeps me from crashing.