Why our best intentions fail

“…the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.” Romans 8:7-8

Paul states a theological truth that is certainly not politically correct today; our old nature is antagonistic to all that God is and stands for. The old nature refuses to submit itself to the law of God; in fact, it cannot. James, who was never known for mincing words, wrote that “friendship with the world is hatred towards God” (James 4:4). That is why our best intentions fail when we try to change the old nature. The hostility between the sinful mind and the Spirit is diametrically opposed. Individuals, regardless of how good they are in the world’s eyes, who are controlled by their lower nature, cannot please God. Persons apart from Christ are “totally depraved,” and in their rebellious state cannot please God.