Look at Jesus

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” — Hebrews 12:2 (KJV)

Owen saves his most important direction for last. After all the advice about watching, fighting and examining yourself, he says the main thing is this:

“Set faith at work on Christ for the killing of thy sin. His blood is the great sovereign remedy for sin-sick souls.”

Then comes a wonderful promise: “Live in this, and thou wilt die a conqueror; yea, thou wilt, through the good providence of God, live to see thy lust dead at thy feet.”

How do we do this? First, Owen says, fill your mind with what Jesus has for you. Even if you feel you have no strength left, even if you are “weary of contending” and ready to give up, there is enough in Jesus Christ to help you.

He compares it to the prodigal son in Jesus’ story. Far from home and starving, what kept him going was remembering that there was bread enough in his father’s house. In the same way, when you feel weak, remember: there is enough in Christ.

Second, Owen says, look at Jesus on the cross: “Look on him under the weight of our sins, praying, bleeding, dying; bring him in that condition into thy heart by faith; apply his blood so shed to thy corruptions: do this daily.” Nothing makes sin look uglier, or makes you want to be free of it more, than seeing what it cost Jesus.

And all of this, Owen reminds us, is the work of the Holy Spirit, who shows us our sin, shows us Christ, and gives us strength.

Owen lived until 1683. Two days before he died, he wrote to a friend: “I am going to Him whom my soul hath loved, or rather who hath loved me with an everlasting love.” Notice how he corrected himself. In the end, it was not about how much Owen had loved Jesus, but how much Jesus had loved him.

That is where the fight against sin ends: not with your willpower, but with his love. Keep looking at Jesus. One day, by his grace, you will see your sin dead at your feet.

One thing to do this week: each day this week, read a short passage about the cross, for example Luke 23:33–46. Spend a few minutes looking at Jesus there, and then pray about the sin you are fighting: “Lord Jesus, you died for this. By your Spirit, kill it in me.”