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Romans 8:5

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.

You're reading your bible or praying, and then all of a sudden this sinful thought comes into your mind. Does that mean you just sinned?
You're flipping through the channels on TV, and as you do you catch a glimpse of a hunk of a man or a gorgeous woman advertising underwear. That picture just passed by as you where changing the channels. Did you just sin?

There are two answers to these questions. The first is no, but the second is yes.
Sound confusing? Let me give you an example of the no and yes answer.

The real question and answer depends on what you do with these thoughts. If you continue to think about these sinful thoughts and dwell on them or if you return to that particular channel to watch the rest of the commercial then I think it would be safe to say that you did just sin. Why, because you just allowed that sinful thought to have control of you to the point that you wanted to commit the sin in your mind, or you physically went ahead and committed the sinful thought. Or you allowed the sin of lust to take control of you as you returned to the channel staring at the person wearing almost nothing and fantasizing about him or her.

So when is it not sin? If you take that thought into captivity and give it to the Lord asking for God's help and telling God that you don't want that thought. Even quoting verses from the bible, which speak against such sin. Then you are not allowing it to have control of you and you are submitting to the Lord even in your thoughts.

2 Cor 10:4-5 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

Or just simply continuing to change the channel and not allowing that quick view and temptation to take control of you.

James 4:7-8a 7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

So remember, just because Satan puts that thought into your head doesn't mean you have sinned and that you should give into it. Only when you give into the thought does it become sin.

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