Calling Sin’s Bluff

“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.”
Romans 6:12-13 (NIV)

Every parent knows this moment. Your toddler demands ice cream for breakfast. Refuses to get in the car seat. Throws a tantrum in the grocery store. And you have to teach them a fundamental truth that you don't have to obey them; they have to obey you. They don't always get their way.

Sin acts exactly like that demanding toddler. It throws tantrums. It makes demands. "You have to look at this." "You have to say that." "You have to go there." And too often, we cave in like exhausted parents, thinking we have no choice.

But here's what Paul says: "Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God... as an instrument of righteousness" (Romans 6:12-13, NIV).

Did you catch that? "Do not let." Whether sin sits on the throne of your life is entirely up to you. Sin has no control except what you give it. Sin isn't just a bully; it's a bluff. And it's time to call that bluff.

Your body is a weapon. It can fight for sin or fight for righteousness. The choice is yours. Stop letting sin throw tantrums and rule your day. Surrender every part of yourself to the only One worthy of the throne, and experience the freedom of the life in Christ that belongs to you.

Prayer: God, I confess I've been letting sin reign when You should be King. Today I choose You. I surrender my body, my choices, my will to You. I will not let sin have its way. Make me Your instrument of righteousness. In Jesus’ mighty Name, Amen.