Paul says that in him (and in each of us) there is a desire to do what is forbidden. The law exposes our sin; and our sin exploits the law to prompt us to sin. So the law is not sinful— but Paul is, and so are we. The problem then, is not with the law, but my sinful nature. It is a matter not of external behaviour, but a matter of the heart.
What is the purpose of the law (v.7)?
"Dear God, I confess that in me is a sinful nature that desires to do what is forbidden. I see how the law exposes my sin, and how my sinful nature uses the law as an excuse to rebel against you. I recognise that the problem is not with your law, but with my own heart. Change my heart, Lord. Renew my desire to obey you, love you, trust you, by the power of your Holy Spirit. I ask in Jesus’ name, Amen.”
For a Christian, the question of which is our true self is settled, though the conflict isn’t. In our inner selves, we love God and his law and desire to live his way. But the presence of sin remains in our earthly nature. So here are two cries of the Christian’s heart. Paul is honest about what he is like; but he also remembers what God is like. Christ has rescued us from the penalty for sin at the cross, and one day will rescue us from the presence of sin when he returns.
Why is this cry of despair (v.24) not the only thing that our hearts cry out (v.25)?
"Dear Lord, thank you for the encouragement as I read even of Paul’s honesty about his struggles. I recognise this struggle in me. Strengthen my desire to follow you. Empower me with discipline to keep up the fight in this conflict. Thank you for the true hope that in Jesus Christ, I can overcome! Amen.”
We feel condemned because Satan uses past guilt and present failures to make us question what Christ has done for us. Our assurance must be focused on Christ, not our performance. Christ already suffered our condemnation for us on the cross; and the Spirit now works to do what we cannot— overcome sin.