Tough Questions: Why Do I Do Those Things?

                                   Tough Questions:    “Why Do I Do Those Things?”    

                                                       Romans 7:15 – 25

1. The Problem: My nature

“I don’t understand myself at all, for I really want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do the very thing I hate.   v17  But I can’t help myself, because it is sin inside me that makes me do these evil things.  v18 I know I am rotten through and through so far as my old sinful nature is concerned. No matter which way I turn, I can’t make myself do right. I want to, but I can’t.”             Romans 7:15, 17-18 (NLT) 

       Result:                               

“I’ve tried everything and nothing helps. I’m at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me?”    Romans 7:24 (Msg) 

1. God’s Promise: Personal

   “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32 (NIV) 

       Behind every self-defeating act is a

III.  The Prescription:

1. the root of my problem

    “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8 (NIV) 

               To stop defeating myself, I must stop myself

2. that Christ can change me  

    “Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 7:24-25 (NLT) 

3. my struggle to another   

    “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so God can heal you. When a believing person prays, great things happen.”    James 5:16 (NCV) 

4. myself completely to Christ

    “Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to its lustful desires….. Instead, give yourselves completely to God since you have been given new life.”  Romans 6:12-13 (NLT) 

    “Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out.” 1 Cor. 10:13 (TEV) 

                               Stop Trying.       Start