Rom 7:14-8:17

Sin entered the human race by one man, Adam, and was put on the run by Jesus Christ, who came as a man to defeat sin and death. Because we have been liberated, (v. 24-5) we can now choose on which side of the road we will drive. If we drive on the right side, controlled by the Spirit, there is life and peace. But if we choose the left side of the road, we are “playing chicken” and death is inevitable if we continue. Romans 8:6, “If people’s thinking is controlled by the sinful self, there is death. But if their thinking is controlled by the Spirit, there is life and peace.”

It is clear that the Christian life is not a walk in the park, but a battle to be fought. It is more subtle many times than having an enemy that comes after you with guns and tanks, but every bit as real, and the stakes are eternal. We are commanded to “put on the whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6:11), not part of it, or only on some days of the week. Are we satisfied to lose a single leg, or one eye, in battle? Do we choose to be battle ready on Tuesday, but blown up on Friday, because of our readiness, or lack of it?

Please don’t think that because you said you wanted to be a Christian one day and maybe were even baptized that you can now do whatever you want with no consequence. The Bible does not say that. What it does say is that those who have saving faith will demonstrate it by obedience and perseverance. We are never perfect this side of heaven, but as v17 tells us, we will receive glory with Christ if we suffer as He did. What is God wanting you to do? Which side of the road will you choose?