A CONTRARY LAW WITHIN

"But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members." (Romans 7:23)

Spiritual life involves a degree of frustration that is confusing to those without understanding. Not only is there conflict without, there is also inner conflict. It would be challenging enough to face opponents outside of ourselves, but when we find opposing influences within, it can be disconcerting. We do well to have an understanding of this situation. It will assist us in keeping the faith.

In conversion, we receive a new nature. "Old things," indeed, "pass away, and all things become new" (2 Cor 5:17). We find ourselves loving and delighting in the Law of God, which is written upon our hearts and placed into our minds (Heb 8:10). What a glorious experience it is! However, our life in Christ involves more than our delight in His Law. Our text speaks of the discovery of "another law" which is not in agreement with the Law of God. In fact, it is hostile to God's precious law, in which we delight. This "law" is not found in the world, or among the society of the lost. It is found "in my members"-- i.e., it is within my person. I carry this contrary law about with me, and cannot get away from it. It sometimes overthrows me, captivating me and causing me to act contrary to my new nature.

This "law" is a principle–something that cannot be changed (like the law of gravity). It is resident in the part of me that has not been born again–"the flesh," or "old man" (Rom 8:1-13; Rom 6:6; Eph 4:22; Col 3:9). As long as I am in "this world," or resident "in the body," I must learn to contend with this wretched "law," and subdue it.

It is not appropriate to simply lament because of the existence of this contrary "law." We are to seek grace to subdue this principle refusing to allow it to dominate us. If we follow its dictates, regardless of our profession, we will "die" (Rom 8:13). The presence of this "law" does not suggest we are NOT saved, or that we are dominated by sin. We are not, however, to imagine ourselves incapable of sin–at least not as long as this law remains within us.

It is our responsibility to stay close enough to the Lord to detect the encroachments of this "law," and refuse to allow it to have prominence in our lives. Correctly seen, its presence proves we have life from God–else it would not be called "another law." Its existence within us confirms we still need the Lord. When it asserts itself, flee to Christ for refuge and strength! Do not be astounded at its presence, but be determined to subdue it through the Holy Spirit!

One more thing. The assertiveness of this contrary "law" confirms we have been justified. It is a sign we have life from God, else it would not rise within us. That is, of course, precisely the point of Romans 8:1. "There is THEREFORE (in view of the struggle I have within--Rom 7:15-25) now no condemnation . . . "

PRAYER POINT: Father, thank You, in Jesus Name, for the grace to subdue the tug of the sinful nature.

-- MONDAY: OUR RESURRECTION BODIES --