It’s significant that the Bible employs the language of falling when talking about a person being overcome by the law of sin. For example, Acts 1:25 speaks of Judas who “by transgression fell.” In 1 Cor. 10:12 Paul issues the warning, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” Like gravity, sin will cause a person to fall. Falling is a very real experience. Furthermore, it can happen so fast. It only takes a few seconds to be defeated.
Thankfully, the Bible introduces another law. It’s called the law of the Spirit. The law of the Spirit operates along the same lines as the principle of aerodynamics. A jet is able to take off and fly because the principle of aerodynamics is greater than the law of gravity. It doesn’t annihilate the law of gravity; it overcomes it!
Likewise, the law of the Spirit does not annihilate the law of sin. Sin still exists. Temptation still occurs. The danger of falling is very real. But like an eagle spreading its wings and soaring, the law of the Spirit lifts us above the law of sin. When I try to fight sin in my own power I lose. But when I rely on the power of Holy Spirit I win.
So how do we rely on the power of the Holy Spirit? First of all, by hiding God’s Word in your heart. “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). Secondly, by turning to God in prayer. “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). And thirdly, by continually pursuing the things of God that produce spiritual growth. “For if you do these things you will never stumble” (2 Peter 1:10b).
When temptation strikes and the threat of falling draws near, stretch out your spiritual wings and soar above it! For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus lifts us up above the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).
Pastor Todd Weston