Romans 8:1
November 7, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 7 NOVEMBER
November 7, 2024
THE 7th OF NOVEMBER
THE FLESH vs. THE HOLY SPIRIT
“I find then a law, that evil is present with me, the one who wills to do good. For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.” – Romans 7:21-23
In these verses, Paul expresses a universal truth that applies to anyone who hasn’t yet learned to live by the Holy Spirit. The sinful, carnal nature naturally gravitates toward evil, and doing good often demands effort and resolve. After being born in the Spirit, we become holy in our spirits, or our “inward man,” and are given “the mind of Christ.” However, until we renew our minds through God’s Word, we remain vulnerable to the desires of the flesh.
In our “inward man,” we love God’s commands and fully desire to obey His will. But the flesh remains weak and resistant to the Holy Spirit’s lordship. Relying solely on our own strength to do good can lead to failure. However, as Paul understood, through Jesus Christ, we are freed from the law of sin and can call on the Holy Spirit to guide us in choosing what is right. For those who live in the Spirit of Christ, there is no condemnation.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Thank You, Jesus, for delivering me from the law of sin and the power of evil. By loving You more and focusing on the truth of Your Word, and desiring its renewal in my mind, I find myself sinning less. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for the guidance You offer me step by step. You are my strength and my joy, and as I draw closer to You, I gain greater control over my desires, allowing Your fruit of self-control to flourish within me. Thank You, Lord, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ, which has set me free from the law of sin and death. Glory and honor to Your holy name, forever. Amen
