The Struggle is real (Sermon Blog)

Written By Pacific Life Church

In our When In Romans series, we’ve been exploring Paul’s letter to the Romans, uncovering deep truths about sin, grace, and freedom in Christ. Last week, we focused on Romans 6:23:

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23

This week in Romans 7, we discover something deeply relatable—Paul’s personal confession that the struggle with sin doesn’t vanish after salvation. In fact, it’s ongoing. The struggle is real—even for Paul.

Paul’s Confession: I Don’t Understand Myself

In Romans 7, Paul uses the word “I” nearly 30 times, highlighting the raw honesty of his internal battle:

  • “I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it.”

  • “Instead, I do what I hate.”

  • “Oh, what a miserable person I am!”

Even the apostle Paul, who knew the law and encountered Jesus personally, wrestled with sin. That should bring comfort to anyone who has ever felt defeated by their own struggles.

Three Principles from Romans 7

1. We Are No Longer Bound to the Law

Using the analogy of marriage, Paul explains that when we died with Christ, we also died to the law’s power.

  • We are now united with Christ, not bound by religious rules.

  • We serve God in a new way—through the Spirit, not through legalism.

  • The law reveals sin, but only Jesus can set us free from its grip.

“Now we can serve God... in the new way of living in the Spirit.” – Romans 7:6

2. God’s Law Exposes Our Sinful Nature

The law isn’t bad—it’s diagnostic. It shows us the truth about ourselves.

  • Paul uses coveting as an example—something subtle but universal.

  • The law arouses sin by making us aware of our fallen nature.

  • Like an MRI, it doesn’t cause the problem—it reveals it so we can find healing in Christ.

“It was the law that showed me my sin... but sin used the command to arouse all kinds of desires within me.” – Romans 7:7–8

3. The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit Is Lifelong

Paul gives voice to the very thing many of us feel:

  • “I want to do what is right, but I don’t.”

  • “There is another power within me that is at war with my mind.”

It’s not just about willpower. The flesh cannot defeat the flesh. Only the Holy Spirit can empower us to live differently. Our hope isn’t in ourselves, but in Jesus.

“Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” – Romans 7:25

From Shame to Freedom

Paul doesn’t leave us in despair. He points forward to Romans 8:1—a verse so powerful, Pastor Steve even got it tattooed:

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1

If you’ve ever wondered, Why can’t I get it right?—you’re not alone. The good news is: you are not condemned. You are being transformed.

Don’t miss Part 8 of our When In Romans series this Sunday! Romans 8 is often called the high point of the whole book. Bring a friend—especially one who needs hope.

Pacific Life Church
Next

Courage Rock