Many years ago, a wealthy man went duck hunting with a hired hand named Sam. They took a horse and carriage, and along the way a rim came off one of the wheels. As Sam hammered it back on, he accidentally hit his finger. Instantly he let go with some bad words. He quickly fell to his knees, asking God’s forgiveness. "Lord, it’s so difficult at times to live the Christian life," he prayed.
"Sam," said the man, "I know you’re a Christian, but tell me why you struggle so. I’m an atheist, and I don’t have problems like that."
Sam didn’t know what to say. Just then two ducks flew overhead. The man raised his gun and two shots rang out. "Leave the dead one and go after that wounded bird!" he shouted. Sam pointed at the duck that was fluttering desperately to escape and said, "I’ve got an answer for you now, Boss. You said that my Christianity isn’t any good because I have to struggle so. Well, I’m the wounded duck, and I struggle to get away from the devil. But Boss, you’re the dead duck!"
That insight fits Paul’s description of his Christian experience in Romans 7:14-25. Struggle is one evidence of God’s work in our lives. Forgiveness of sin is available, so don’t despair. Remember, dead ducks don’t flutter. – Dennis De Haan
Struggle, yes, it’s part of living,
Nothing’s gained on beds of ease;
But when our heart is set on Jesus,
Struggle drives us to our knees. – D. De Haan
READ: Romans 7:14-25
If Jesus lives within us, sin need not overwhelm us.
The Bible in one year:
• Ezekiel 40-41
• 2 Peter 3