This is a common theme in Paul's letters. And that tells me, among other things, that it is something that is a common struggle amongst all believers. Being made Christ-like is a life-long process, and we must daily "put to death what belongs to our sinful nature" (v. 5).
- sexual immorality
- impurity
- lust
- evil desire
- greed
- anger
- wrath
- malice
- slander
- filthy language
- lying
If you have been saved by the blood of Jesus, you have been (past tense) "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:19-20). Don't live your life as if you are still the old you. You are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). As Paul continues in Colossians:
Colossians 3:12-15 Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you must also forgive. 14 Above all, put on love—the perfect bond of unity. 15 And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Be thankful.
You are a child of God, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, filled with the fullness of His power and blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms. You are not a slave to sin, but a slave to righteousness. Live as you are, not as you were.
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