Why the Struggle Between Good and Bad Is So Universal
Have you ever noticed that even when you’re trying your best to be good, do the right thing, or make a positive change, there’s always a part of you that seems to pull in the opposite direction? You’re not alone—and this idea goes back thousands of years.
What Does “Evil Is Always Present” Mean?
This phrase comes most famously from the Bible, where Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans (specifically Romans 7:21), says, “I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.” Put simply, Paul’s saying that every time he wants to do something good, he finds something bad tugging at him, making it hard to always follow through with his best intentions.
Paul’s Struggle: A Story We All Know
Paul describes his experience as a constant struggle: he really wants to do what’s right, but he keeps finding himself tempted or even acting in ways he doesn’t actually want. It’s like there’s a “law” inside him—a set rule or hidden force—that keeps interfering every time he tries to do good.
This “law” isn’t a law written in a book or given by a judge. Instead, it’s more like a tendency or habit inside us all, something that feels like it’s just part of being human.
Why Is This Important?
Paul isn’t just talking about himself—he’s speaking about a universal human condition. Most people can relate: we have a sense of right and wrong, we want to make good choices, but we also have thoughts, desires, or habits that get in the way. Sometimes these challenges come from inside (our own thoughts or feelings), and sometimes they come from outside (the world around us).
Broader Meanings and What They Teach Us
· Human Nature: The phrase “evil is always present” can also mean that all people have the potential for good and bad inside them. Nobody is perfect, and everyone has to wrestle with the “not so good” side of themselves.
· Worldly Influence: Some understand this to mean that the world is full of things that tempt us or lead us away from what’s good. Even if we try our hardest, there’s always something—big or small—that can trip us up.
· Spiritual Warfare: For some people, this struggle is seen as a kind of spiritual battle. It’s not just about personal habits, but about bigger forces of good and evil at work in the world and inside us.
Why Do Good People Still Struggle?
Even the kindest or most dedicated people find themselves tempted or even acting in ways they wish they hadn’t. The more someone cares about being good, the more they notice and feel bothered by the times they fall short. It’s not about being bad people—it’s about being honest about the struggle we all face.
Paul explains that just wanting to do good isn’t enough. There’s something deeper—our habits, our past, our feelings—that sometimes pulls us in the wrong direction. And this is true for everyone.
What’s the Takeaway?
If you ever feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle to be your best self, you’re not alone. This struggle has been recognized for thousands of years. The key isn’t to give up, but to understand that the presence of “evil” or bad tendencies is part of being human. Recognizing this helps us be more patient with ourselves and with others.
At the same time, the hope is that by being aware of this struggle, we can keep striving to do good—knowing it’s a journey, not a destination. The fact that we feel the struggle is actually a sign that we care about doing what’s right.
In the end, the message is simple: Good and bad are always present in our lives. What matters is that we keep trying, keep choosing good when we can, and understand that we’re all works in progress.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 