The truth is we died with Christ the moment we accepted Him as our Savior. Romans 6:4 explains the spiritual transaction at our rebirth. It says, “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death…”

Yet, it is our responsibility to not embrace the temptations that dishonor the Lord. We are dead to sin. When something within rises up as a reaction, we have a choice. Luke 9:23 says, “…If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”

The moment the reaction rears its ugly head, we deny our flesh by intentionally looking to the Holy Spirit to lead us through the moment. We submit to His way, and respond with grace words.

We do not know what is hidden in our heart. Any fiery dart that penetrates is a lie planted by the enemy of our soul. It lies dormant until our goal is blocked. When I feel a reaction to someone or a situation, I know that something hidden was triggered. That is a signal to humble my heart.