Well put.
The "slow death" is the same as the "gradual sanctification" doctrine.
Forever trying to achieve on their own what God provides instantly.
This made me think of the repentant thief next to Jesus on the cross. Remember he was dying, he was being crucified as well! And Jesus said to him Today you will be with me in Paradise.
Of course Jesus wasnt thinking he and the repentant thief were going to live on earth much longer. But key is the thief was repentant! If he was not accepting his cross and dying, well think of a different scenario, maybe you steal but nobody catches you, what do you do if you truly repentant you would confess and give back what you stole and not steal anymore, if you did get caught you would accept the punishment which is why so many people convert in prison. Them when they done their time have pleaded guilty they set free. If they insist they didnt do anything wrong then they are not free at all. They cant bury their old self and live a new life, they will forever be in darkness and hiding in their sins, and die in their sins. Maybe they can pretend but not for long... criminal and sinner will still be on their record, only with Jesus can our sins be put away forever. Only He gives us the grace to transform our hearts so we will NOT sin. If this was not possible to be righteous on our time left remaining on earth then anyone who believes in Jesus could just all die instantly and be in heaven right now. But no it is Gods mercy we are still here and He wouldnt have kept you alive just so you can keep on sinning.
So what does this mean for us. We need to go to the cross. We need to understand what Jesus did for us. He didnt just give us some good ideas on how to live a holy life, like buddha or whatever holy teacher you can think of. He gave his life for us, he has breathed His life INTO us.
Romans 6 is an essential chapter to read and understand. Please prayerfully read it and receive His word into your heart.
God reminded me of this passage, just thought would share it as to do with the OP topic.
James 1:4-8King James Version (KJV)
4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
