Defeating Sin with Scripture

As an introduction to this study, read the 1-minute devotion A Practical Way to Deal with Specific Sins.

Reciting, memorizing, and reading Scripture can renew our minds and help us overcome bad habits. That’s because God’s Word is not like human words. 

God’s Word has transforming power.

1. In the verses below, list (or underline) the different ways the psalmist connects with God's Word. How does he show respect, commitment, and pleasure in God’s Word? 

Psalm 119:9-16: "How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. 10 I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 12 I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. 13 I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. 14 I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. 15 I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. 16 I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word."   

2. Where does transformation start? Do you ever wonder why some Christians grow quickly and behave in godly ways while others live pretty much like the rest of the world? Many people experience an initial burst of renewal when they give their lives to Christ but eventually lose it. Others maintain that sense of renewal throughout their lives. What do you think accounts for this difference? Why is renewal a lifelong process? 

Romans 12:1-2: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." 

3. Do you see the process of renewal as active or passive? Why is it important for our beliefs to be aggressively protected in our thoughts? 

2 Corinthians 10:5: "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 

4. Note the two aspects of renewal in the verses below. 

Philippians 4:8-9: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

Optional homework: 

Using this online Topical Bible, find several verses dealing with specific sins you're struggling with. 

Besides the examples above, you might look up bitterness, forgiveness, worry, fear, jealousy, envy, patience, joy, thoughts, etc. 

Write the verses on 3x5 cards and meditate on them daily.  

These Bible Love Notes also have some insights into this subject:
Dirty Thoughts
2 Step Program for Overcoming Negative Thoughts 


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