Biblical Answer

Can I still be a good Christian if I struggle with sin?

Christianity is not a free ride, and becoming a Christian brings responsibilities. You don't simply lean on Jesus and thereafter get a free pass to sin. In fact, you acquire a higher calling, both to God and to your fellow man. You are expected to strive for a life that reflects Christian values and teachings.

While it is true that Christians do sin, it is not an excuse to continue in sin. Struggle makes us stronger; it builds us up and deepens our faith. But this result is achieved only when we face the struggle head-on, not when we run from it. We must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (2 Tim. 2:3). We must be willing to hang onto the cross by our fingernails, even when it feels like our faith is being tested.

In fact, it is through our struggles that we can experience a deeper level of faith and a stronger relationship with God. The testing of our faith produces patience (James 1:3). This patience allows us to persevere in our walk with Christ, even when we struggle with sin. We can be good Christians, even with struggles, by being willing to face our struggles head-on and by relying on the power of Christ to overcome them. As Watchman Nee said, "It is harder and easier than what we are all trying to do." We can find strength in our struggles, and we can become a better version of ourselves through our walk with Christ. (Nee, The Normal Christian Life)