Pain shows evidence of healing
Sometimes it has to get worse, before it gets better. A friend of mine learned this as she was healing from an injury that tore ligaments in her ankle. The pain was evidence that healing was taking place. Paul knew the spiritual pain of dealing with sin erupting from his flesh. The battle was fierce and only Christ could deliver him.
Perhaps you have discovered the same thing. You come to know Christ in truth. You know He has saved you, but the battle with sin becomes even more intense. But don’t stop in Romans 7. In chapter 8, we learn there is hope for progress as you rest in the promise of “no condemnation” for those who are in Christ Jesus. There is assurance of the Spirit’s presence and guidance for God’s children who call Him “Father.” It has to get worse before it gets better. Christ will deliver us and bring us home where it will be (not just better but) perfect. Forever.
Today’s reading:
My selection:
Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin. There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 7:24-8:1
For more reflections on this passage, see the corresponding reading in my book Cover to Cover: Through the Bible in 365 days.
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
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