A Cry of Anguish
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Rev. (Rtd.) Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | Thursday, August 27, 2026 | Romans 7:24–25
KEY VERSE: “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” — Romans 7:24 ESV
MESSAGE:
Paul’s cry in verse 24 is not an abstract statement. It is the voice of an anguished soul who has become painfully aware of his inability. He has described the conflict within, the power of indwelling sin, and the frustration of wanting to do what is right while failing to carry it out. Now the struggle reaches its climax: “Wretched man that I am!”
It is instructive to note that justification is a completed act when we embrace the finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ, while sanctification continues throughout the Christian journey. As we grow, we often become more conscious of the depth of sin within us and the weakness of our own strength. The desire to live according to God’s will is real, yet the struggle against the old nature can remain intense.
Paul therefore asks the right question: “Who will deliver me?” This is an honest acceptance of personal inability. He no longer looks within himself for the answer. Verse 25 gives the response: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” The cry of anguish leads directly to the Deliverer. Our hope in the struggle with sin rests in Jesus Christ and the help He provides.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Stop looking within yourself for the power to defeat sin. Cry honestly to Christ for deliverance and depend on Him for the strength you need.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, I confess my inability to overcome sin by my own strength. Deliver me from its power and teach me to depend fully on You. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
Day 239 Isaiah 39–41 — Learn from the Past and Walk Humbly with God
DAILY word study: DELIVER Paul’s question is not, “How can I fix myself?” He asks, “Who will deliver me?”
The Greek word translated “deliver” in Romans 7:24 is ῥύομαι, rhyomai. It means to rescue, save, or draw someone out of danger or bondage. Paul has reached the end of self-reliance. He recognises that the power of sin is greater than his own strength. His question points beyond effort to a Deliverer. Romans 7:25 gives the answer: Jesus Christ our Lord.
Reflect on This
Where are you still trying to rescue yourself? Bring that struggle to Christ and depend on Him for deliverance.
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