Definition: For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Romans 7:22. It's a really thought-provoking one that speaks to our struggle with sin and our desire for things we shouldn’t have. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, the verse says: “I enjoy or pleased in the rules and teachings of God after my heart and mind are changed.” Let's unpack that a bit more: “I delight…” – This isn’t about liking something superficially. It means experiencing a deep, satisfying joy and happiness when we follow God’s path. It’s a feeling of contentment and peace when we align with what God wants us to do. “…in the law of God” – The “law” in this context refers to God's commandments or rules – the moral code that tells us how to live righteously. It’s essentially all the things God has told us to do, like being honest, kind, and just. “after the inward man” – This is the crucial part. It means inside our hearts and minds. We’re not talking about following a rule because we want it; we're talking about a deep, internal change that happens when we truly understand God’s will. So, what does this mean in practical terms? It means that even though we want to disobey God (because we have weaknesses and temptations), our own desires and thoughts often lead us to sin and turn away from Him. We're constantly battling against the temptation to do wrong – it’s a persistent struggle. Why is this important? Paul uses this verse to explain why he was imprisoned and facing hardship. He recognized that he enjoyed the law, which meant he was actively choosing to disobey God! It highlights our inherent tendency to want things we aren't supposed to have – we’re wired for temptation. In short: The verse is saying that because we are changed by God within ourselves, we actually prefer following His laws and living a righteous life. It's about overcoming our sinful nature! --- Resources if you want to delve deeper: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/21-Romans-7](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/21-Romans-7) - This page has explanations and commentary on the verse. Faithful Conversations: [https://faithfulconversations.com/romans-7-22/](https://faithfulconversations.com/romans-7-22/) – This resource provides a good overview of the verse’s meaning and significance. Do you want me to: Explain it in a different way? Discuss its connection to other parts of the Bible? Talk about how this verse relates to our daily lives?