"Somehow having "our sinful passions, aroused" sounds more evil than just "the motions of sins"."
That's cause you are a man. lol
Seriously though, I agree. "Sinful passions aroused" does sound more evil than "the motions of sins".
Growing in grace and walking by the Spirit is definitely a process. Over time, we should be able to see a change in ourselves, and others should be able to see it too. Otherwise, something is very wrong.
I'm just in my mid 30's, so if you see some immaturity in me, just give me some time, or much better yet, give God some time to work on me. :)