The Spirit works in us to lead us to live our lives according to the Spirit, rather than according to the lustful desires of our flesh.
We are to be consecrated and set apart, and the way we do this is by the Christian discipline of setting our mind on things above, rather than the things of the earth.
This takes Our effort by the grace of God, His Spirit working in us to compel us to live godly and deny the desires of the flesh.
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Therefore
put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Colossians 3:2-5
again
Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:12-13
- if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body
Please note, it is
us, by the power and grace of the Spirit, that we ourselves “put to death”, or mortify, the deeds of the flesh.
There are many such commands, that we are to do, because we have The Spirit in us, empowering us to do these things.
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:20-22
- Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor,
- Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
These are things, disciplines we are to actually do, because we can, by His grace.
The New Testament is filled with such commands for us to do... because we have faith.
JLB