Sin has such a power over us because it is our first nature to sin. I understand that, that is why we must be born again. To deal with sin we need the help of the Holy Spirit, who guides us into all truths, etc. We call on God to come to us, He does!! Near to us as He is, we may think it us doing it, but often times I believe by default, the WORD living in us causes us to literally turn away or quietly ignore or sometimes boldly charge against sin. When we fail, we are drawn into repentance which is such an intimate encounter with our LORD. We remain His bride, His child, His friend. We must go on and "live for righteousness" which again is the LORD in us doing it.
Ps. 23:3 He guides me in the paths of rihteousness for His names sake.
That kind of righteousness is, to me, when the LORD has His way in us. Often times it appears to be a circumstance that is a bit uncomfortable in the flesh. When I recall scripture, I see that it was HIM AGAIN!! PTL!!!