For those who have struggled, have you excused yourself because you have changed in so many other areas? Perhaps there is still one thing you have not given up, and it is usually the first thing God asked you to give up? There are no excuses. God can see straight thru your faulty negotiations with Him. You may overly deny yourself in an area you do not care about (money, for example) so that you can hang onto your idol (food). This “work” is invalid and will not save you on that Great Day, for your idol will be beside you. An idol must be eradicated—as no greedy man, for such a man is an idolater, will enter the Kingdom of God. Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect.
When you return to the sin you repented of, that is pride, and pride and the Spirit of God do not mix, so the Spirit (which includes self-control, which is wanting less) is removed. That means when you reject the Holy Spirit you will all of a sudden want more. Have you ever had rapid weight gain? This is the absence of the Holy Spirit.
Thru sincere repentance, with the mercy of God, you can start over. When you start over, it is such an incredible gift to once again receive God’s powerful, priceless Spirit that gives you the “I do not want more” attitude. When you have rejected such a powerful Spirit, you must return to The Lord with humble and convincing words, declaring that you will forever choose a life of giving (denial) to Him. If you do not determine to end your backsliding, you are without the power. Determine to live a life of denial and it will be a beautiful relationship with God!
For more on this topic, read History of the Love of God, Volume II – A Love More Ancient than Time
