Re: Paul's dilemma

As you read the book of Romans,you come across this thought provoking statement" For that which I do I allow not:for what I would,that do I not;but what I hate, that do I."-Romans 7:15.

The apostle Paul's statement reminds one of the words spoken by our Lord and Savior at the time when His inner circle disciples failed to live to the challenge. He said "And He cometh unto the disciples,and findeth them a sleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation:the spirit indeed is willing ,but the flesh is weak." Mathew 26:40-41.

Do you remember the adage "Never say never?" As human beings, there are certain things that of our own, we can not make it. It will take the divine hand to lead us through. Reflect on the following:

1. When I completed my studies and made up my mind to return home and work for the Lord, I declared that I will never by all means return. The challenges that I had gone through while pursuing my studies discouraged me. After two years of ministry, I found myself in the class room again.

2. There are certain companies that I have worked for and for some reasons resigned declaring never to go back. But after some time, I have found myself wanting to go back.

3. I know of many unmarried men and women who have said so many things against a certain individual ,only to turn around and marry the same.

4.I guess you have heard people swearing never to ride in so and so's car. Then on their way to work, their car breaks down or winter hits hard and the only person who happens to go their way is the one they don't want to ride in his/her car.

5.Have heard stories of people who swore vehemently never to step their feet in so and so's church. But as fade would have it,a friend or relative passes away and the only place found for the memorial service, is the church of their disliking.

6.As a minister,I have come a cross people who are totally against anything to do with God. They curse and say all kinds of bad things about God and the church. However as the spirit moves, one day you find them very active serving their God.

7.Do you remember the story of Joseph as found in the book of Genesis? His brothers denied the thinking that some day they will bow down to him. They even sold him to make sure that this will not happen. But did it happen? Has anyone ever told you on your face that you will never make it or that you will be no one?

8.How about declaring that so and so will never become the president! What happens when he becomes? Don't they say that in politics there are no permanent enemies?

It therefore follows that we need to be careful what we say and how we say it. We should be careful lest we say things that we will later regret.

The only thing that we must and should say "never," is sin. And even with sin,we will do well to remember that of our own we can do nothing. But with God, all things are possible.Do you believe that?

Just a thought.

Pr Birai-612-386-4608
Maranatha SDA church,Hopkins,Minnesota