26
Not Perfect, but Forgiven
Tim Savage21I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.22I love God’s law with all my heart.23But there is another powerwithin me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.24Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?25Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. Romans 7
You gotta love Apostle Paul. He tells it like it is and in this passage he explains this dichotomy in my life: if I’ve chosen to follow Christ and give my life to him, why do I still struggle with sin? There is another power in me wrestling for control of my mind, inflaming my pride, lust, anger and selfish nature. I will never be perfect, but I have a Savior that is and the free gift of salvation that He, and only He, gives is all I need for eternal life in paradise. All that is required of me to receive this gift is believing that Jesus is the Son of God. My faith is my ticket. Even though it’s not possible for me to be free from sin, I must try to live a better, more holy, life because I cannot take advantage of His mercy and grace.
I must live a life that pleases God and through my life and my example I hope to draw others closer to Him. Yes, sin is inevitable, but I’ll not let it be my master. My master is Jesus Christ. I will fall from time to time, but I’ll get back up and follow Him. I’m thankful for Paul’s transparency and practical teaching. We are not perfect and never will be, but God isn’t looking for perfection, just believers willing follow His direction. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for your grace and mercy and thank You for the free gift of salvation. I cannot earn it and do not deserve, but You give it anyway. Grant me the strength and courage to live a life that pleases You.
In Jesus name,
Amen
