RESCUED!

On May 26, 2006, Jerry chose to write in his journal from Romans 7:24,25, "Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Christ Jesus our Lord!"


He continued, "In this chapter of Romans, Paul tells of the constant struggle between his seeking to be a Godly man, yet recognizing the power of flesh in himself that takes him to a place where he does the very thing he doesn't want to do! He declares that only through the saving grace of Jesus Christ can we humans be victorious.  We are unable on our own strength and skill to claim victory.  Jesus died and rose again to guarantee he would rescue us from the power of our own sin.


"Jesus Christ alone, not me, brings victory over temptations  in my life.  Jesus is my rescuer--by His shed blood he throws me a live-saving ring to cling to when I finally realize I can't do it on my own.


"Praise God who rescues me from temptation through His Son, Jesus Christ.  Amen."


Jerry is a really good man. There is little that I saw when we met and even after five years of dating that needed "work."  But I knew when he was tempted by something, and I knew who he went to for help. Jerry helped me to discover where he got his power for goodness and I tried to remember the power of Jesus Christ as I attempted to eradicate my own flaws and change them to kindnesses.  I try to remember to whisper the name of "Jesus" when I catch myself about to play the "blame and shame" game. I'm not too proud to admit that I am still working hard at it. Jesus does rescue us, but the work is still ours to do, and to continue to do as long as it is needed.


We  humans, some with the help of our Lord, others fighting the fight alone, find ourselves hoping to live without sin.  It is fortunate for all that God knows us so well, and that we shall always meet sin on our walk through life.  I praise God that, should I ask, He will rescue me from those temptations through His Son, Jesus Christ.


Will He travel on your path, as well?  He will, if you ask Him to.
Jo INMN