Sin does not just happen. It begins in the mind and gives way to actions. We don’t just “accidently” sin and go against God. It is a choice that begins with a thought or desire. James 1:15 says, “These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” It begins in the mind. When you begin to entertain thoughts of sin and evil, it will consume your mind until you make a choice to defy God. Then sin is birthed as this verse says. Once it is out there in the world there are two choices. You can either repent and turn back to God, or you can continue on in the sin. Once you choose to continue, sin will grow and eventually lead to death as this verse says.
So how do we stop this from happening? First, it begins in the mind. You must take every thought captive as it says in 2 Corinthians 10:5: “We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” We capture the thought and make it obey. What does this look like? Immediate prayer. The second you feel your mind wandering, stop and pray. Ask God to help purify your mind. THe other thing you must do is fill your mind with scripture and the things of God. This can only be done if you are studying scripture and spending time in the Word. Take time every day to fill your mind with Him.
You can stop sin before it happens. You can change the trajectory of your journey by repenting and following God. He is the only One who can free you of your sin and thoughts.