Portrait of a Struggling Christian
We're not short on desire to do good, but when it comes to pulling it off, why do we keep blowing it? Paul answered this question in Romans 7.
We're not short on desire to do good, but when it comes to pulling it off, why do we keep blowing it? Paul answered this question in Romans 7.
Unfortunately, the battle between right and wrong, good and evil, will always be at war within us. Despite our best efforts, we will always be strugglers. But Christ enables us to overcome wrong. He gives us the power to do what’s right.
As we encounter life’s trials, we can remain confident that the Potter, who causes all things to work for our good, kneads and reshapes us to fashion something beautiful, useful, and practical.
Romans 8 offers good news: the fulfilled life is divinely possible through the power of Him who lives within us. The secret lies in simply allowing Him to take control and change our walk.
Life is made possible by His empowering us to live above the drag of the flesh. Such a concept could cause some to think that the Christian life is a “cloud nine” delight, full of nothing but “glorying,” uninterrupted peace, pleasure, and prosperity. To keep things realistic, Paul introduced the other side of life—the “groaning.” They are indissolubly linked—welded together and inseparable.
Does this mean that since a Christian who commits suicide won’t go to hell we can relax and not worry so much about it? No. We need to understand the factors, especially depression, which can lead to suicide even for Christians.
Because Christ has set us free we’re no longer slaves to the power of sin. It’s a difficult concept but that’s what grace is all about.
The Apostle Paul offers some of the most powerful and comforting words in all his writings—he reminds us of God’s magnificent providence. Only by coming to terms with this great doctrine can we confidently face an uncertain future.
Where does this saying come from? Some believers think if God calls you to serve Him somewhere dangerous, you will be protected from harm because He has called you and you are obeying.
Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he reveals that Christians have a choice—either to continue to yield to the sinful desires of the flesh or to experience true freedom through the power of the Holy Spirit.