September 6, 2023: Crucify The Flesh!

"And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires." (Galatians 5:24, ESV)

I never thought I would ever participate in a crucifixion, but in Christ, I am called to carry out a crucifixion. Crosses were made for crucifixion. If a man were found guilty of a crime, punishable by death, he would be crucified. I was found guilty of sin, a crime punishable by death. There was only one way out, Christ Jesus. My old self must die for my new man to live! The old man must be crucified because he is guilty of sin! Crucify! Crucify! Crucify!
    
The flesh/the old man with all its passions and evil desires must die! We die to ourselves so that we might live for Christ. Jesus personally experienced the cross in my place, taking all my sin, shame, and punishment. He did that so I would not have to die spiritually but could be born again. I identify with His death on the cross (He took the place I was supposed to be.) This means that I can say I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but the life I do live, I now live for Christ. I give Him my life, and He gives me His!
    
The next time you are tempted to fall into sin and your flesh is crying out in lust and desire, stand to your feet and begin to shout: "Crucify! Crucify! Crucify! Lead your flesh to Calvary and let it be crucified!