We learned in school that our earth is so dense that gravity makes everything fall toward it–unless a stronger power prevents it. That principle helps to explain why we need a source of power to help us do what is right. Paul the Apostle explained it this way in Romans CH 7: “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.” Later, he says “I want to do what is right but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. I have discovered this principle of life – that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.” Then in frustration he says, “Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” So today, to resist evil and do things we know are right to do, we must have internal power stronger than the urge to do wrong. We need Jesus Christ living inside of us. As we rely on Him, He gives us his power to what is right.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
