Giving Them Tools

One of the ‘tools’ we have learned in the past year is what is called, the 8 Rs to Freedom.  They are just that, tools!  Not some legalistic check list or formula, just tools.

We have found the 8 Rs extremely helpful in dealing with sin.  Yes, we do sin here . . . frequently!  I know you are surprised.  I have written on this before, and might again.  It is so important!

Recognize: The first ‘R’ is to recognize. We must recognize the sin before we can do anything with it. We must learn to discern what is within us that is not of God. It does little good to repent for something you do not recognize.

The Word of God is quick, and powerful, . . . and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

Responsibility:  ( I did it!) We must take responsibility for what we have recognized. Stop blaming others. Once we have agreed with the thoughts we recognized we are now participating with sin. We need to take responsibility and deal with the sin.

For I acknowledge my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, and thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight . . . (Psalm51:4)

Repent: (repent and turn the other way!) You cannot repent for something you do not recognize, and you cannot truly repent unless you have taken responsibility. Repentance is a quality decision, not because we feel like it. Repent and turn the other way!

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19)

Renounce: Tell that sin that you want nothing to do with it. You want it out of your life. Have a perfect hatred for evil. Make evil your enemy!

The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the forward mouth, do I hate. (Pr. 8:13)

Remove: (get out of here!) You have to remove what is not of God. In the name of Jesus it needs to go. You have to have rule over your own spirit.

Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. (James 4:8)

Resist:  Resist so it never, ever comes back! It will try to come back, you need to resist it. You must take thoughts captive. We must not be ignorant of the devil’s schemes.

Submit yourselves to God, resist the devil and he will flee.

Rejoice: Give thanks to God for setting you free. Praise is a very powerful weapon in our warfare.

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice!

Restore: When the Lord has set us free we are to restore others with a spirit of humility. Part of restoring others is bringing the gospel to those you love, instructing sinners in Zion who are separated from the refreshing of the Lord and making disciples of them.

Then I will teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee. (Psalm 51:13)