APRIL 22: Willpower Won’t Work
(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Romans 7:15 reads, I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.
Have you ever tried a new diet or exercise routine and told yourself (and maybe others), “I’m actually going to follow through this time?” If not, you’re likely in the minority. Every year, millions of people set New Year’s Resolutions and the vast majority of them fail by the end of January. Why? Because far too often we live with a false narrative, telling ourselves what we will or will not do based solely on our own willpower.
The Life Application Study Bible1 notes on Romans 7:15 that Paul has learned 3 valuable lessons. (1) Knowledge of the rules does not make it easier to obey them. Just like knowing the benefits of diet and exercise does not mean we will simply follow them. (2) Self-determination and self-improvement cannot change our hearts. (3) Becoming a Christian does not stamp out all sin and temptation in a person’s life.
Real transformation only occurs when we allow God to change our hearts and our minds. To think we can make it happen on our own is foolishness.
READING & JOURNALING:
When is the last time you were determined to accomplish something based on your own willpower? How did it work out for you?
What is one area of your life in which you need to allow God to change your heart and/or mind?
PRAYER:
Today, write out your own prayer to God. Confess at least one area of your life in which you need to allow Him to change Your heart and/or mind, and ask Him to transform this area of your life.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
The F260 is a Scripture Reading Plan designed to read through the foundational passages of the Bible through a year (September 2019 – August 2020). It is a separate reading from the daily devotional but is included for those who would like to engage with the Scriptures on a deeper level throughout the year.
Read: Matthew 1 & 2
Note: Are you looking for a Study Bible to help you engage with the Scriptures at a deeper level? If so, click here for some recommendations.
south ridge blog 