Pastor James Griffin encouraged believers not to be “discouraged by the struggle,” noting that it is “a good sign that the Spirit of God is at work.”
The Struggle
At some point in a Christian’s life, they may face struggles, whether related to sin, addiction, or anything impeding their spiritual growth. This remains a daily reality, even for those who know Jesus. If you find yourself as one of those Christians grappling with something today and seeking liberation, this message from Pastor James Griffin is intended for you.
James Griffin [@pastorjamesgriffin]. Pastor James. Instagram, 19 Jan. 2024, https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2P5762r94L/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
A husband and father, a sincere follower of Jesus, Pastor James shared words of encouragement for Christians facing struggles. He said, “Do not be discouraged by the struggle. The struggle is a good sign that the Spirit of God is at work in your life.”
The Flesh And The Spirit of God
He explained that it is common for a follower of Christ to struggle with sin at times due to an internal battle. The pastor highlighted that this occurs when the Spirit of God is triumphing over the flesh, leading to submission to Christ.
“Because what you’re recognizing is that there’s this war raging between your flesh and the spirit,” he said. “And both of these are trying to win out over the other.”
The Spirit is Working
Pastor James further explained that man’s flesh and the Spirit of God have different objectives. While the flesh seeks to lead a person away from God towards sin, the Spirit of God operates in the opposite direction. He draws a person “away from sin and toward God in the life of righteousness.”
Hence, he remarked that the “internal battle shows that the spirit is in you. That you have been saved, that He is working to save you in present time from the power of sin.”
Thus, Pastor James advised Christians to be encouraged and embrace the struggle. He concluded with powerful words for his listeners, saying:
“The great news is the spirit of God can give you power to put the flesh to death. That the flesh has no authority over you. Paul says in Romans 8 you’re not obligated to sin any longer. You do not have to say yes. The enemy wants you to believe the lie that you have to say yes. That the flesh is too strong for you. That you can’t overcome it. But the spirit of God is there so that you can. And so as long as you will walk in step with Him and yield to Him each day. And ask Him for what you need to put the flesh to death. He’ll give it to you and then He’ll lead you in the way you should go.”
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Header Image: James Griffin [@pastorjamesgriffin]. Pastor James. Instagram, 19 Jan. 2024, https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2P5762r94L/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link