Biblical Answer

The struggle to overcome our desires and sinful tendencies is a constant battle, one that we must engage with courage and determination. As the Apostle Paul writes in Galatians 5:16-17, "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you wish." This battle is not just about resisting our sinful desires, but also about cultivating a life of virtue and moral strength. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not running aimlessly; I pommel my body and make it my slave, lest possibly, after I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified."

The question "what's the point of fighting when it feels like the odds are against me?" is one that many people struggle with. It's natural to feel overwhelmed and discouraged when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. However, as followers of Jesus, we are called to be courageous and determined in our pursuit of holiness and spiritual growth. As Jesus says in Luke 10:19, "Behold, I give you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you." This authority is not just for our own personal benefit, but also for the benefit of those around us. When we engage in this battle and emerge victorious, we become a source of hope and inspiration to others. As the Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:58, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord."

In order to keep our faith strong while fighting against our sinful desires and the enemy's attacks, we must remember that our battle is not just with our own flesh, but also with the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. As Ephesians 6:12 says, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." This means that we must not underestimate the power of the enemy and the depth of our own sinful tendencies. We must engage in this battle with wisdom, courage, and determination, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us. As Jesus says in Matthew 11:12, "From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and violent men take it by force." This is a call to action, a reminder that we must be willing to take a stand and fight for what is right, even when the odds are against us.