SPIRITUAL SINS

“Some sins are more specifically "spiritual sins" than others. Two kinds stand out especially: (1) sins kept within the confines of the heart; and (2) sins directly related to spiritual topics-- idolatry, spiritual pride, atheism, heresy, and the like. Paul calls them "filthiness of the spirit" and sets them apart from filthiness of the flesh 2 Corinthians 7:1.

When the spirit or the heart is the stage whereon sin is enacted, it is a spiritual sin; such are all impure thoughts, vile affections, and desires which do not break forth into overt action but are nonetheless real acts of the inner man. As with all sin, Satan is the great, unseen instigator of every sin of the heart.

When thoughts and feelings overtake you that you know are not pleasing to God, what can you do? You do not want to be critical-- but you are; you do not want to covet-- but you do. How can you take these stones of offense and rocks of stumbling Satan hurls into the path of your thoughts, and use them to build a monument of glory to the Father? In two ways in particular: by keeping a close watch on your heart and by steadfastly resisting its sins.

First, keep a close watch on your heart. What welcome does Satan find when he comes with these "spirituals of wickedness" and asks you to dwell on them? I do not ask whether such guests step inside your door. If we had God's ability to look into man's heart, we would see the worst of sins stirring in every Christian. That they have been scattered on the field of our hearts, we already know, and by whom-- the grim sower, Satan.

What is important is whether, with holy thoughts and earnest prayer, we pour oil upon them and light a match to them, that they are consumed in a holy fire.”

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617