It is No Longer an Option

I was praying today, asking the question of why there are some sins that are so hard to avoid, while others are so easy. I heard the spirit say the difference is that I make that particular sin, the one I have a problem with, an option. It becomes a viable choice for me that I consider a possibility. Murder, not an option, therefore it is never a temptation or concern. Stealing, not an option. In my mind it does not even show up as a possibility. But, something like lust or greed. I don't want them, but they are somehow a possibility within my mind. Sometimes, they sneak up on my quickly, sometimes they are slow and premeditated, but in all cases I have allowed my mind to consider them as a possibility. It happens when I begin to justify or make excuses, then I find a place where I can accept my reasons for acting in a way contrary to my new nature. I allow my flesh an audience with my spirit, and my flesh then convinces my mind that the things I desire are somehow good for my spirit too. I have found it is easier to resist temptation when I am fasting, fasting and praying. I was thinking about that today. Why is it easier to resist temptation when I am fasting? Here's what I realized. First, and most obvious, I am surrendered to God and aware of my commitment to Him. I am more aware of the sin crouching at my door and I have time to arrest those thoughts and take them to the cross, and secondly, because I am in a covenant with God regarding whatever it is I have chosen to fast, it becomes harder to justify my actions. The thing that I struggle with is no longer a possibility. To stay in that place is key to victory, and I think that it takes time with things we are deeply connected to. It takes constant prayer, surrender, and a conscientious effort to bring our minds to an understanding that it is no longer an option.