There is a perpetual battle between the spirit and the flesh. A major part of our conversion, repentance, and overcoming involves taking up our own cross daily and metaphorically crucifying the sins of the flesh, destroying permanently its downward pulls and desires. We must not have pity on our old carnal nature, even though the rejection of this old nature is going to be painful, but the destruction of our old nature must be decisive. In this process, we must deny ourselves, taking up our cross, following Christ, learning what He teaches and follow in His ways. Like the Ephesians, we must remember our first love, repent of losing it, and striving mightily to regain it.