“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not” (Romans 7:18).

     Not only Satan and false preachers, but our own flesh is an enemy of salvation by grace alone. Human nature always did kick against salvation by grace through faith and it always will. Even we ourselves, who know that Christ is our righteousness and sanctification, have to do battle with the urge to feel good, holy and wise because of what we have done, given or learned. “Down, foolish thought, thou art the enemy of my soul.” 

     “In my flesh dwelleth no good thing.” 

     My one hope is pure grace, sovereign grace, grace unqualified! God blesses me because He is good, not because I am good. God saves me because He is gracious, not because I am gracious. God accepts me because of what Christ has done, not because of what I have done. Any good or grace manifested in me is not me at all, but Christ Who dwelleth in me. I can take no credit for any act of mercy or any good thought.  Left to myself I would be no better than the most evil creature.