SUMMARY: Torn
OVERVIEW: Paul is frustrated that he cannot do the good he wants to do, yet does the evil he does not want to do.
BIG IDEA: Becoming a Christian takes a moment of faith, but becoming Christ-like takes a lifetime of following, surrendering, and worshipping.
KEY VERSE: Romans 7:15 (Paul’s frustration)
I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Rest assured, I am here to set you free from the control of sin over your life. Still, your belief in me doesn’t mean you will never sin. Your commitment to follow me does not mean you will never sin. Because you understand the destruction a sinful choice brings does not mean you will not sin. Your sincere determination to avoid sin and does not mean you will not sin. But don’t be discouraged. Don’t give up. I am making you more and more like Christ every day.
Don’t try to fight sin with your strength. When you fall, know that I am lovingly reaching out to help. Reach out and grab hold of the power I have made available to you. Listen to and rely upon my Holy Spirit. The fact that you feel the tension that comes with leaving your old life and following me into a new one is good. It proves that my Holy Spirit lives in you, transforming your thoughts, desires, and perspective. I don’t ask you to be perfect. I love you and accept you no matter what. Surrender again and again, and let me lead you to the best life you can live.
NEXT STEP
Accountability is a great tool to help with temptation. Share a sin struggle you’re facing with a trusted friend and ask him or her to help. Remember, even this tool is useless unless you rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. Cry out to God and trust him to help you be obedient as you take the necessary steps to deal with temptation.
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