"In the battle of flesh and spirit, in
which true Christians stand, they not only overcome sins, they carry off all
kinds of precious virtues as their loot of their combat. The longer they
battle, the more universal, comforting, and untiring their love becomes. Their
joy becomes purer, their peace becomes firmer, their patience becomes stronger,
their kindness becomes more sincere, their goodness becomes richer, their faith
and faithfulness become more constant, their gentleness becomes more
unconquerable and their self-control becomes more immaculate. In short, the end
of the true battle of the flesh and spirit is an advance in sanctification.
This resulting sanctification is as far from perfect as the victory of the
spirit over the flesh is complete. Indeed, every Christian must confess, with
Paul, "Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect"
(Phil. 3:12). Nevertheless, where that battle truly exists, a fighter must be
able to add truthfully, as Paul does, "I press on to make it my own,
because Christ Jesus has made me his own" (Phil. 3:12). Oh may God grant that
we all become and remain true fighters against the flesh and sin. May Jesus
Christ, our eternal Prince of victory, help us all for the sake of His battle
with death."

CFW Walther

God Grant It

p. 717