Today’s scripture: Romans 7:14-25 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Kristen Hermann):
In today’s reading, Paul expresses great frustration with this humanity and the obstacle it creates as he strives to follow God’s law. He laments, “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do — this I keep on doing.” His language is strong as he compares the disconnection between his mind’s desire and his body’s actions to a war.
I relate to Paul’s struggle on a daily basis in a variety of areas in my life. He uses the word “sin” which holds different meanings to different people. I’ll define it for this devotion as something that keeps me estranged from God. Of all the ways I experience sin, I’ll share the struggle to take better care of my physical body. I want part of my service to God to be a caretaker of my fellow human beings in their journey through this life. I know this service suffers when my health declines from poor food choices and a lack of exercise.
Every night I set two goals for the next day: (1) Since I haven’t found the time in the evenings to exercise, I’ll wake up extra early to do it, and (2) I’ll drink more water and less soda. I feel confident and believe tomorrow will be the day I find the discipline I need to be healthier, feel better, and inevitably be of better service to God. Odds are, though, my body will plead for more sleep, and I’ll respond by setting back the time on my alarm. I’ll also grow tired of drinking water, start to crave a sugary soda, and drink just one…or two.
Paul continues the war analogy by stating he is a prisoner to the sin of his fleshly desires, rescued only by God through Jesus. As grateful as we are to receive God’s grace, we should not give in to our humanity and simply accept the disconnection between our desire and action. It is frustrating and disappointing when we know better but do not choose to do better. But we must keep fighting this metaphorical war. Reaching self-actualizing, being our authentic selves, and having a closer relationship with God are at stake.
Now please excuse me; I am writing this late at night and need to set my alarm and fill my water bottle for the morning.
Thought for the day: God, I desire to experience the closest relationship with you that I can. Help me find the strength and discipline to have my actions effectuate this desire.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.