Today’s Encouragement is, “And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. Romans 7:18 NLT
Nothing good –
In much of Romans 7, Paul lays bare the ugly truth of sin. He admits to God and to us that he does the sin which he hates. He wants to do what is right, but…
How is this encouraging? Because this is just the introduction, not the conclusion… in chapter 7, Paul confesses this great frustration, the struggle with the sinful nature… which we all have! But then he reveals that we are entirely and perfectly saved from ourselves, and from our sin – by Jesus! “Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord” (7:24-25a).
And that’s not all! (Although Jesus is always enough!) In the next amazing chapter 8, we learn that we are not condemned (v1), we are no longer slaves (v15), but we are His adopted children (v16), He helps us in our weakness (v26), and He works in all things for our good (v28)! We are more than conquerors (v37)! And there are many other wonderful examples of God’s Grace – His unmerited favor – in this beautiful chapter 8!
Friends, the reality of our sinful nature is a harsh and ugly truth; nothing good lives in us! – but recognizing this indicates so clearly our need to be saved… by Someone other than ourselves! Jesus is the only One!
Father, help us confess our sin, accept Your Grace, and then live as Your grateful, forgiven, victorious, and freed sons and daughters.
Redeemed
Big Daddy Weave
Today’s Encouragement 