Human nature wants to have its own way; Christians submit to the will of God (James 4:7).
Human nature looks out for its own interests; Christians work for the good of others (Philippians 2:4; 1 Corinthians 10:33).
Human nature is eager to receive honor and reward; Christians ascribe all honor and glory to God (Mark 10:17-18; Acts 12:23).
Human nature fears shame and contempt; Christians are happy to suffer reproach for the name of Jesus (Acts 5:41).
Human nature expects pay for its services; Christians volunteer without asking for a reward (Matthew 10:8).
Human nature attends carefully to worldly affairs; Christians pay attention to things eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18).
Human nature grieves at any loss of goods; Christians lay up treasure in heaven where none of it can be lost (Matthew 6:20).
Human nature is greedy and grasps more readily than it gives; Christians are content and esteem it more blest to give than to receive (Acts 20:33-35).
Human nature finds comfort in material things; Christians seek comfort in God and God’s people (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
Human nature takes pleasure in friends and relations who are like-minded; Christians show love for everyone, even their enemies (Matthew 5:44-46; 22:36-40).
Human nature cultivates the rich and powerful; Christians are impartial, treating rich and poor alike (James 2:1-9).
Human nature is quick to complain; Christians bear patiently with courage (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Human nature desires recognition, praise, and admiration; Christians desire humility and eternal wisdom (James 3:17-18).
The more, therefore, that human nature is controlled and overcome, the richer is one’s Christian walk.
Adapted from Thomas à Kempis, The Imitation of Christ, book 3, chapter 54