Scripture to Read: Romans 7–8
As we prepare for worship today, we close our week by reviewing Romans 7 and Romans 8. God had Paul remind us that His Law is perfect but that His Law alone cannot provide freedom from sin. God’s Law opens our eyes to the fact that we are sinners in need of God’s power to be set free from the power and penalty of sin. God’s Law is like a mirror to our hearts, showing us who we are apart from Christ. The mirror shows our imperfections, but the mirror can’t change our imperfections. Once we surrender to Christ as Lord, then God’s Word breathes life into us and guides us to know how to walk in obedience to God. God also had Paul reveal to us the conflict every believer faces daily. Though our “old nature” has been crucified with Christ, our “flesh” (Galatians 5:19–21) is what still hungers for the garbage of this world. So, we have a battle between our flesh and God’s Spirit in us (Galatians 5:16–17). We know the conflict is real because we face it every day. The Good News is shared again in Romans 8:1, for in Christ we are delivered from all condemnation and set free. We live in a fleshly shell, but God's Holy Spirit lives in us and as we choose to walk in Him, we experience His life and peace every day. Only as we choose to crucify our fleshly desires can we live in the fullness of all God has for us.
Challenge & Application
What battle do all Christians face each day, and why do we face this battle?
How do we overcome the battle we’re in, and what has God given us to overcome the struggle?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!