“For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.” (Romans 7:18–19)
Some people read these words by Paul and can’t understand how he could say such things about himself. They find alternative ways to interpret these verses, either seeing them as a description of Paul’s life before conversion or see him speaking of the reality of non-Christians.
I personally have trouble understanding the people who can’t see a Christian saying these things. Yes, they sound extreme, unless you keep reading down into Chapter 8. In context, I think they reflect the reality that we all have to live with: even as new creations, we still have the old creation with us. Our flesh (to use the biblical term) with its propensity to sin will be with us until we are remade into our post-resurrection selves.
Maybe some people have reached a level of sanctification that I’ve found unattainable. Or maybe they have such an exalted view of the biblical writers that they imagine them as having achieved such holiness. Whatever the case, I know that I still must “discipline my body and keep it under control.” (1 Corinthians 9:27) I find that “the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.” (Galatians 5:17)
There is an old phrase, attributed to different sources, that says, “There but for the grace of God go I.” The idea is that only God’s grace stands between me and the sin (and consequences of sin) that overcome others. I need that attitude. I need to remember that I am capable of great sin and am only capable of holiness through the working of God’s Spirit.
When I see a fellow Christian in sin, I need to remember Paul’s words:
“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1)
I must be careful, so that I don’t fall into the same temptation. Because the Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. I must continually rely on God’s strength, or I too can fall.
Maybe you’ve grown beyond that. If so, I envy for you. As for me, sin is always willing to pay me a visit. I need God’s power to choose to resist it.