Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (126) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.
Romans 7:16.17

Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (126)
Whoever has been sincerely converted to God, believing in Jesus Christ as his Saviour, senses profound joy over the forgiveness that he has received. Yet this can soon turn to bitter disappointment, even despair: there is the wish to do good, but the strength to do so is lacking. Instead, wrongdoing, so much hated (v.15), results.

Despair over this state can go so far that such Christians doubt their salvation. They wonder whether Christ really dwells in their heart, when it produces so much wrong.

Whoever finds himself in this situation can be comforted by these verses. The Bible provides the solution for this experience. Here we learn whoever wishes to do good and hates evil shows thereby that his will has truly undergone a genuine renewal. He has received a new nature, and his true being is united with this new nature. It is the strength to do the will of God henceforth that is lacking.

The old nature, still characterised by sin, continues to dwell in him. And while the believer honestly desires to serve God with his renewed will, the sin that dwells in him urges him to commit wrong against his will.

Whoever recognises that these two natures are present in him will no longer doubt his conversion and new birth. However, even this recognition does not give him the power to act according to the will of God.

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: Exodus 15:1-16 · Luke 6:39-49