Today's Meditation:
Romans 7:18-25
“Who will deliver me from this mortal body?” (Romans 7:24)
How many times have we said it: “I am never doing that again! I am never drinking (or eating) too much; yelling at the kids; looking at pornography; swearing or lying or gossiping.” Each of us struggles with sin. With the best intentions and all the willpower we can summon, we set out, determined to do better. We long to master and be done with a particular stronghold—only to fall again.
We know what is good and what is sinful. Deep in our hearts, we want to please God. But how can we change if our most strenuous efforts aren’t enough? With Paul, we all cry out: “Who will deliver me?” (Romans 7:24). To know the answer, we must admit: “I can’t do it on my own.” This is the first verse of the glad shout that disarms the enemy. But it must be followed up by the chorus: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (7:25).
Yes, thanks be to God! Even when you feel defeated yet again by the same old sins, know that Jesus has redeemed you. Even when you feel powerless against temptation, rejoice in your salvation. There may still be areas in your life that need to be conquered. There may still be attitudes that need to be corrected. But sin does not have the final say.- "You are still a child of God, chosen and beloved of the Father."
God sees your struggles. He knows your anxieties. He sees how hard you are trying, and he honors every effort you make. When you fall, he does not turn away. No, he comes closer, offering you his mercy and his healing. Hour by hour, minute by minute, he stands by you, pouring out grace and comfort.
So live as a victor today. It may not make logical sense to the world. But to anyone who has tasted the goodness of the Lord, it makes perfect sense. Turn to Jesus. Keep his victory in sight. Declare it: Jesus’ death is enough; there is no more condemnation; love has triumphed. Let that love sweep away any thought that you will never change. Turn away from self-condemnation and toward his unfailing love. Let him fill you up, and sin will slink away.
“Thanks be to God through our Lord Jesus Christ! Lord, you are my hope and my salvation!”
Psalm 119:66,68,76-77,93-94;
Luke 12:54-59
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