Romans 7:22

“For I delight in the law of God after the inward man.”

Context:To understand this verse better, let’s consider the context of Romans 7. In this chapter, the apostle Paul discusses the struggle between the law of God and the sin nature within him. He describes the tension between his desire to do what is right and his inability to fully overcome the power of sin on his own. This struggle is meant to highlight the need for salvation through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

“I delight in the law of God”:Here, Paul expresses his innermost desire and inclination as a believer in Christ. Despite his struggles, he finds delight in the law of God. The law refers to God’s commandments and instructions given in the Old Testament. Paul’s delight in the law is a reflection of his transformed nature in Christ. Through faith, he recognises the goodness, righteousness, and wisdom found in God’s law.

“After the inward man”:The phrase “inward man” refers to the spiritual nature or the innermost being of a person. It is the regenerated and renewed part of a believer that is in tune with God’s Spirit. This inward man is different from the “flesh” or the sinful nature that Paul refers to throughout Romans 7. While the flesh desires sin, the inward man desires to obey and please God.

Delighting in the law of God:Paul’s delight in the law of God reveals a transformed heart and mind. As a believer, he recognises the significance of God’s law as a standard of righteousness and holiness. This delight is not based on legalistic adherence but is a result of his new nature in Christ. It is a genuine joy and desire to align with God’s will and follow His commandments.

Application:As believers today, we can draw several lessons from Romans 7:22:

• Recognising the importance of God’s Word:Just as Paul found delight in God’s law, we should value and cherish the Scriptures. Through the Bible, we gain insight into God’s character, His will, and how we should live as His children.
• Striving for obedience:While we may still struggle with sin, we should have an inward desire to follow God’s commandments. This desire comes from the work of the Holy Spirit within us, transforming us into the image of Christ.
• Cultivating a love for God’s law:Rather than seeing God’s commandments as burdensome rules, we should approach them with joy and gratitude. Delighting in God’s law helps us align our lives with His purposes and experience the abundant life He offers.

Remember, Romans 7:22 is just a small part of the broader context of Romans 7 and the entire book of Romans. Studying the entire chapter and the book as a whole will provide a more comprehensive understanding of Paul’s teachings.