Romans 7:21, Contrary Motion

Romans 7:21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

Contrary motion is motion in opposite directions. In music, it describes the melodic progression of two voices moving in opposite directions. That is, when one of the lines moves up, the other line moves down (that is, in inversion). If the voices always move by the same intervals (in opposite directions) they are said to be in strict contrary motion. This may be used to illustrate the movements of the heart toward doing the will of God and contrary to His will. In the contrary motion, the melody sound distorted. When we are not yielded to the Spirit’s voice, we can yield to sin.

The Apostle Paul sees in his heart both the propensity for good and for evil. He has to actively choose to do good whilst he sees an evil tendency seeking to pull him down. He sought the Lord to help him do good and finds in the Lord a present help. James Smith echos the Christian’s victory over sin as he waits upon God, “What a mercy that evil does not reign in you, and over you. It did reign once, and would reign but for free and sovereign grace.”

The Apostle Paul is saying to the Roman Christians that they have the wherewithal to do the will of God in their lives. This will certainly bring joy and peace to their hearts. Because of this stark awareness of the enticement to sin within him, he lives his life with care, observing that he would not displease his Lord.

Indeed, we need to be reminded to keep close to the Lord daily. May the Lord grant you His grace this day to walk with Him! Amen.