They that are Christ’s, have crucified the flesh with the lusts and affections thereof. Galatians 5:24.
Luther on these words, says, “Although the flesh is alive still, and frequently stirs, yet it cannot fulfil its desires, because it is fastened to the cross.” With the crucifying of the flesh we have to do as long as we live. This is the cross we are to take up daily, and which, either prevents many outward crosses, or at least yields great comfort under it.
The cross being an extraordinary good means to experience the sweetness of the word of God, O my soul, thou must always be ready and prepared for it. And if none comes from without, take care to break thy own will in every thing. Painful and hard as this may seem to be at first, yet will it certainly very soon grow easier, and be matter of real joy. Blessing and peace will attend thy ways and steps, that thou shalt glorify God for having been resigned and guided not by thy own, but his good will and pleasure. Self-will, on the other hand, creates nothing but vexation, trouble, and uneasiness. It is punished by itself, deprives us of all real blessings, and therefore deserves, and is best to be broke and crucified in its first motions.