New Testament
Romans 7:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Paul expresses a struggle that many people face: the conflict between their desires to do good and their tendency to do wrong.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
For the good that I want to do, I do not do; but the evil I do not want to do, that is what I keep doing.
For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul expresses a struggle that many people face: the conflict between their desires to do good and their tendency to do wrong. He acknowledges that despite wanting to act righteously, he often finds himself falling into behaviors he wishes to avoid. This highlights the human condition of inner conflict, where intentions do not always align with actions. Paul’s words resonate with anyone who has experienced guilt or frustration over their shortcomings. It emphasizes the reality that even those who strive to live morally can find themselves trapped in patterns of behavior that contradict their values. This struggle is not just a personal issue but a universal experience, illustrating the need for grace and support in overcoming such challenges. Paul’s honesty about his own failings serves as a reminder that growth and change are ongoing processes, and that recognizing our weaknesses is the first step toward seeking help and transformation. Explore related corruption.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 7:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and recognize the areas where we struggle to align our actions with our values. It reminds us to seek support, whether through community, prayer, or counseling, to help us overcome these challenges and grow in our moral journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 7:19 mean?
Romans 7:19 expresses the struggle between wanting to do good and actually doing the opposite. Paul highlights the inner conflict many people face when their intentions do not match their actions.
What is the meaning of the phrase 'the good that I want to do' in Romans 7:19?
The phrase 'the good that I want to do' refers to the positive actions and behaviors that Paul desires to pursue, reflecting his moral intentions and aspirations.
How does Romans 7:19 relate to personal struggles?
Romans 7:19 relates to personal struggles by acknowledging that everyone faces challenges in aligning their actions with their values, highlighting the commonality of feeling guilt or frustration over one's shortcomings.
What themes are present in Romans 7:19?
Key themes in Romans 7:19 include inner conflict, the desire for good, moral failure, the need for grace, and the importance of self-awareness in personal transformation.
The Book of Romans
Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.
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