How to Fight Against Sin: A 5-Day Devotion From ColossiansSample

DAY 2: Rely on God's Power

Not only does Paul pray that the Colossian believers would know and obey God’s will, but he also asks God to strengthen them to do this (v. 11). We can know what we should do, and we can even desire to do it. Yet we often find ourselves not doing the very thing we know we should do. Sometimes we get distracted, and other times competing desires win out, prompting us to act differently than planned. So often, we have good intentions yet fail to follow them.

Because of our sin nature, we’re inclined to sin. We’re tempted because we’re “lured and enticed” by our own desires (Jas. 1:14). Because of this, we need God’s strength and power if we’re going to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord” (Col. 1:10). 

Becoming a Christian means receiving new life and a transformed heart, but having affections, thoughts, and actions that accurately reflect the Christ we follow is a work-in-progress. But the more time we spend with Him in prayer and in the study of His Word, the more we reflect Christ.

Since putting knowledge to action requires motivation and effort, Paul prays God would give these believers “all power” according to His “glorious might” (v. 11).

Sometimes it feels like we don’t have the ability to fight sin and win. Temptation is too strong, and we’ve given in more times than we count. We know we don’t have the capacity to overcome on our own, and it can all feel so hopeless.

But God has power, and He offers it to us.

In Ephesians 1:19-20, Paul expounds upon “the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe.” It’s the same power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph. 1:20), and it’s the power with which He rules “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion” (Eph. 1:21). Power over death. Power that surpasses any government, any organization, any individual, any angel, or any demon. That’s the power God offers you.

He doesn’t call you to fight sin and leave you powerless in the fight. He offers you His power, the very power that has already conquered sin and death. By His grace and power, you can win in your daily battles against sin because He’s already won the war against it.

How do you utilize this power? Through prayer. Ask Him for the power to obey. This is a prayer that aligns with His will and one which He delights to answer. He wants you to obey Him, and He wants to equip you to do it.