Why Good Intentions Aren’t Always Enough
The Inner Battle Every Christian Faces
Romans 7:17-25 is one of those passages in the Bible that gets really honest about what it means to be human, even when you’re truly trying to do what’s right. Paul, the writer, basically says, “I want to do good, but I keep messing up—and it feels like there’s something inside me working against me.” If you’ve ever felt like you’re fighting yourself, you’re not alone.
“It’s Not Me, It’s Sin Living in Me” — What Does That Mean?
Paul makes a distinction between who he really is (his “new self” in Christ) and the sinful tendencies that still linger from his old life. When he says, “It’s no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me,” he’s not trying to make excuses or dodge responsibility. Instead, he’s explaining that there’s an ongoing tug-of-war between his desire to follow God and the stubborn presence of sinful impulses. It’s like having a bad roommate who just won’t move out, even though you’ve changed and want a better life.
The Context: Why This Struggle Happens
Paul’s words come from a broader discussion about how God’s law sets a perfect standard, but nobody can meet it on their own. Even after becoming a Christian—someone “redeemed”—the battle doesn’t just disappear. The “flesh” (our old, selfish nature) still tries to pull us in the wrong direction, while our renewed spirit wants to obey God.
The Two Sides: The “Real Me” and the “Sin in Me”
Paul talks about the “two I’s”—his true self who wants to do good, and the part of him that still struggles with sin. He hates the wrong things he does and wishes he could be perfect, but admits that his old habits and passions sometimes take over. This shows that even passionate believers aren’t immune to mistakes, and that doesn’t make them hypocrites—it makes them human.
Taking Responsibility—Not Making Excuses
It’s important to note that Paul isn’t saying we’re off the hook for the things we do wrong. He’s clear that sin is still our problem, even if it feels foreign to who we want to be. By pointing out that sin “dwells” in him, he’s acknowledging its influence, but not its control. Just because something lives in a city doesn’t mean it rules the city—and just because sin lives in us, doesn’t mean it should rule our lives.
Why Is This So Hard?
The frustration Paul expresses—feeling trapped by behaviors he hates—is something many Christians experience. He compares it to being sold to a master you despise, unable to break free on your own. This is not a sign of weakness, but of spiritual growth. The closer you get to God’s standards, the more you notice your shortcomings. It’s humbling, but it’s also a sign that you care deeply about doing right.
The Ultimate Solution
Paul doesn’t leave us stuck in this struggle. He points ahead to the solution: rescue comes through Jesus Christ. Christians might never be perfect in this life, but they’re not alone in the fight. The Spirit of God also “dwells” within believers, giving them the strength to resist and overcome the pull of sin. The journey isn’t about instant perfection, but about ongoing progress, hope, and trust in God’s help.
In Plain Terms: Why This Matters
· Everyone struggles with doing the right thing—even those who truly want to.
· If you feel conflicted, that’s normal; it means you’re growing and care about God’s ways.
· You’re responsible for your actions, but you’re not alone in wrestling with temptation.
· There’s hope, because with God’s help, you can become more like the person you want to be.
In short, Romans 7:17-25 reminds us that being a Christian doesn’t mean you never mess up or struggle. It means you’re in a lifelong process of learning, changing, and depending on God to help you win the battle within. The conflict isn’t a sign of failure—it’s proof that you’re alive and fighting for what’s right.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 