A coworker confessed to me that he didnt think he was Jesus material. I listened as he described what he called his comfortable, narcissistic life, and how it didnt satisfy him. But heres my problem, Ive been trying to be good, even caring, but it isnt working. It seems that the very things I want to do, I cant do, and the things I want to stop doing, I just keep doing.
Whats your secret? he asked me in complete sincerity. My secret, I answered, is that there is no secret. Im as powerless to live up to Gods standards as you are, which is why we need Jesus.
I pulled out a Bible and showed him his quote as the apostle Paul expressed it in Romans 7:15. Pauls words of frustration often resonate with both pre-Christians and Christians who find themselves trying to be good enough to deserve God but falling short. Maybe it resonates with you. If so, Pauls declaration that Christ is the author of our salvation and its resulting changes (7:258:2) should thrill you. Jesus has already done the work to free us from the very things that have us so puzzled with ourselves!
The barrier between us and God, the barrier of sin, has been removed without any work on our part. Salvationand the changes made by the Holy Spirit in the process of our growthis what God desires for all. He knocks on the door of our souls. Answer His knock today. Its no secret that Hes the answer!
INSIGHT
In Romans 7:1425, Paul candidly shares his personal spiritual struggles as well as his deep confidence in Christ for help and hope (7:25). Romans 8 then unpacks that help and hope. The hopeful promise of no condemnation (8:1) is supported by the most extensive treatment of the Holy Spirits helping ministry (vv. 527) found anywhere in the Scriptures (outside of John 1416). Pauls confidence in Christs help and hope are not theoreticalthey are provided by the indwelling Holy Spirit (8:11).