SOMETIMES, IT'S JUST NOT SO EASY

              This is often so very painful

In review of my last post the Apostle Paul has made it quite evident that he as all of us, either periodically or consistently, finds himself doing what he does not want to do. Think about that for a moment. To the world it is a clear sign of some sort of mental disorder or weakness, pure selfishness or just a complete lack of regard for self and those around you. Without considering the presence of (original) sin or a contrary worldly influence that would seem to be a reasonable assumption. But, as Christians we should realize and need to acknowledge that there is spiritual struggle being waged within for the soul of each and everyone of us in Christ. Though one may be in Christ it does not prevent the enemy (Satan) from weaving his webs and plotting his schemes to influence, and lead us into behaviors and lifestyles that are abhorrent to God to ultimately lead us astray from our road of sanctification and possibly salvation.

The Apostle Paul begins to explain the use and righteousness of the law of God in v.16, And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. In His divine wisdom I believe that one of the most important creative aspects of the law is for us to realize that the law is impossible for us to perfect. A demonstration of love from our Father that compels us to dependence on Him. As in contemporary society, in many cases, we are only made aware of our wrong actions by the presence of a law that addresses the action. Unfortunately, as in my case, I tend to have a heavy foot on the gas pedal. I can be driving along at a speed that I consider reasonable, or that feels good, but then I see the speed limit posting which differs from my “reasonable” thinking. Now, generally I would not have known I was in the wrong if I was not made aware of the law. So, I agree that the law is good, specifically because it keeps me in check and convicts me to obey the law of society.

16^a If [and it is true], then, I do what I will not to do [do not want to do]There is an import to the struggle between the (old self )in us and the newness of life in Christ. If the “I” does not do what it wants, then it agrees that the law of God is good. There is a tragic irony in that we can agree with God’s standards but at the same time violate them. It is a fact that Paul did not want to do what he did. There was something in him that did not want to do battle with the law. Paul violated his best intentions. 16b I agree [concur] with the law that it is good [noble, excellent].-- The law moved Paul’s conscience in agreeing that sin is sinful. He concurred with the standards of the law completely and approved that the law was right in judging what he did. If the law were not good, then he would have had no conviction about his sin. His highest intention was to agree with the law that it was good. The idea that Paul did what he did not want to do shows that he did not fundamentally oppose the law. He viewed the law as “noble,” as something essentially good. (Dr. Grant Richison, verse by verse commentary)

But he said to me “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”... II Cor. 12:9a

We in Christ must adhere to and be obedient to the word of God. Yes, we must and will forever continue to battle the self desires of the flesh. But, if it wasn't for the Grace of God, we would struggle horrifically, daily. That Grace( the free gift from God) is what releases us from condemnation and provides the freedom to receive the love of Jesus Christ. We must acknowledge not rationalize the presence of sin in our lives, it is natural. It is OK to acknowledge that. Acknowledgment is the first step to addressing it in a constructive way. Rationalization is such an enemy to obedience. I hear so many who either blame God for circumstance and happenings in the world making allowance for us to do our thing since God seems to do His own thing with no consideration of us. Free Will is a gift and a burden of responsibility for us living in a fallen world. God's law provides us the guidance, protection and safety of the chaos the swirls around us. Our additional gift of that free will comes with the presence of the Holy Spirit (the Helper) in our lives to give us the strength to overcome sin and be obedient to the standard God has set for us.