I tend to be hard on myself when I make a mistake or fall short of God’s standard for me. What helps me feel better is knowing that the apostle Paul, who wrote many of the letters in the New Testament, experienced the same struggle. I can relate to his words in Romans 7 because if I am honest, a battle rages within me. My flesh pulls me in one direction while God’s Spirit calls me in another. I want to operate in grace, forgiveness, humility, and trust, but my human nature often wants justice, vindication, and understanding.   

“So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind… What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?” Romans 7:21–24 NIV

How comforting it is to know that one of the greatest men of faith understood exactly what it feels like to battle the desires of the flesh. What’s even better is that our loving God forgives us and loves us to greater heights and healing. 

The Need to Defend Ourselves

One of the hardest temptations we face is the desire to defend ourselves. When people misunderstand us, misjudge our motives, or believe things that simply are not true, we desperately want to explain ourselves. We think, If they only knew the truth, they would see me differently. They would treat me differently. They would not judge me so harshly. However, no matter how hard we try, some people are committed to their version of us. They may cling to bitterness, offense, pride, or judgment, refusing to extend grace or consider another perspective.

Writer and filmmaker Dream Hampton wisely said:

“Never waste your time trying to explain who you are to people who are committed to misunderstanding you.”  Dream Hampton](https://l