“What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.” – Romans 7:24-25
As we journey along the path of sanctification, it’s crucial to grasp a fundamental aspect. Amidst our internal spiritual struggles, maintaining equilibrium within our faith is paramount. While wrestling between our sinful inclinations and our righteous aspirations, it’s vital not to sway too far in one direction. Today’s passage echoes the inner groan of the author of Romans with their sinful nature.
In this battle, preserving the equilibrium between law and grace holds significance. God’s love isn’t directed at our sin but towards the imprisoned soul that agonizes, cries out and yearns for the Lord. The Apostle Paul described himself as “a wretched man,” voicing despair and hopelessness, yet offering immense hope and solace. Hopelessness of human existence/nature, this would probably be the prevailing conclusion among theologians and philosophers throughout history, whether openly acknowledged or rejected. Even Paul, esteemed as one of history’s greatest Apostles, shared this sentiment with our souls. He didn’t portray a false image but confessed authentically, finding joy and praising God amidst hardship. He comprehended the dynamics of justification, sanctification, law and the Gospel. When our faith harmonizes in these areas, even painful experiences become true sources of joy. We must believe in gradual change, a departure from the past, progressing step by step.
Ultimately, the conclusion holds immense significance. Understanding the law, sin, God’s heart and wrath—pivotal in Romans 1-7—leads to eventual joy and praise. Hence, Romans 8 becomes crucial, as Apostle Paul consistently concludes each chapter of Romans by joyfully extolling God after delving into profound doctrines of sin.
Paul embodied an unceasing fountain of joy for the God of salvation. May we deeply grasp the realm of salvation, allowing the Apostle’s spiritual richness to flow into our hearts, creating overflowing fountains within us all.