We are commanded here to actively dismantle the “old man, ” our old sinful nature. We are to willingly submit to God renewing our minds and strengthening the new man. Notice that “lusts” (fleshly desires) are “deceitful” and lead to a corrupt conversation. Note that “conversation” as used here is an older English term meaning “conduct or lifestyle.”
And we pray:
Lord, let us not be deceived by sinful lusts and be drawn away to live a corrupt life. Instead, help us to actively seek out the remnants of the old man in us, as if on a “search and destroy mission, ” using Your Word as our only offensive weapon. But that weapon is Mighty through God and able to pull down the most well defended fortresses of sin. We are confident in Your Word and will run to it for help always. We pray that You lead us, guide us, protect us, Amen.