Re-tred 03/12 051012

Consider –

“True and lasting resistance to sin comes not through willpower and self- improvement but through the Spirit who empowers believers with a knowledge and love of God.”

There is a NOT

And

There is a BUT

And OH how critical they are!

Is that which is “NOT” un-needed?

No – for it is NOT – through

NOT – by means of

NOT – alone

But it’s still NOT.

B U T – now that’s a through too

NOT a what

BUT a who

Through whom

NOT do not will it

NOT do not improve you

BUT

NOT, do NOT rely on them

They are nice and good and helpful – indeed!

BUT, alone, they are NOT!

Who empowers?

He does.

Empowers with knowledge and love!

Then

Only then

Will “will” will anything useful and effectual

Only then

Can “self” improve

Only then