Will following a set of rules make us spiritually strong?

We establish a set of rules to be followed by ourselves based on what we think is "right" or "wrong". There is an impending danger and deception in it. Let us assume that we set the following three rules that we would follow very religiously

1. No lusting
2. No over eating
3. No jealousy and greed

Now, on what basis we can be sure that we would be able to follow this without compromising? If we say that it can be done through self control and will power, we may deceived. Though, people may say that they have great self control outwardly, only a person's own soul knows the pain and agony it goes through each day fighting against many of these moral and ethical obligations.

The biggest danger of it all is when we try to showcase and discern that strict observance of these rules actually gets us closer to God or in other words helps us to grow in our spiritual life.

The Bible says that in Jeremiah 17:9 that “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?"

It is a matter of the heart rather than anything outward. Jesus also said in Matthew 15:19, 20 "19 For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. 20 These are what defile you. Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you.”

The most important point to understand is that "We cannot make ourselves good by following a set of rules that are set by ourselves and by depending on our own strengh". Unless, there is a change of heart through true repentance, we will never grow in our spiritual life.

Apostle Paul in Colossians 2: 23 says "These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires"

What is the way out? There is only one way and that is through the saving power of Jesus Christ. This is the greatest miracle of all in which a person's heart is changed and mind is renewed day by day by the power of God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is only by accepting Him as our Lord and truly following His commands that we become spiritually mature and strong. It is more to do with renewed thinking and priorities rather than just following a few rules that may just give us a temporary feel good factor. God bless you!