But God gives us what we need.

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I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?
Romans 7:21-24 New Living Translation

The two opposing powers within are at war. One is so strong and insidious. It pushes and pulls at me to keep me in its familiar grasp and off balance. It cries out with insecurity. It points to injustice against me that no one else can see. It lies as it tells me that I must find my own justice.

But the other power fights as well. It lifts me up high where the air is clear and clean. It stabilizes and confirms the strengthening strength inside. Injustice against the needy, the poor and the weak are brought to light. It breathes justice that only comes from above.

The two powers are not equal. One will win. One is stronger.

Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.
Romans 7:25 New Living Translation

There is an old Cherokee story of a grandfather teaching his grandson by telling him a story that there are two wolves fighting within him.

“It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.” He continued, “The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.”

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”

The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

Lord, may we feed on Your truth, that it may become that which nourishes us. May Christ be proved stronger than any evil wolf could ever be.

Copyright Photo by Doug Brauner Text by David Brukiewa