21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. (Romans 7:21 KJV)
William Burkitt’s Commentary
As if the apostle had said, “I verily find sin, having an impelling power and impulsive virtue in it, like a law in my members, thwarting and contradicting the inclinations of my mind, and the resolutions of my will, that when I would do good, evil is present with me to oppose and hinder me from the doing of it.”
Note here, A double burden which the apostle complained of;
1. Of the presence of sin at all times, Evil is present with me. It follows me, as if he had said, and is as inseparable from me as my shadow. This he calls a law, because of its mighty power and efficacy, and because of its constant residence in his nature.
2. Of the operation of it, especially at some particular and special times and seasons. When I would do good, then evil is present with me. As if he had said, “When I address myself to any holy duty and heavenly employment, when I desire and design to draw near to God and would hope for the sweetest fellowship and communion with him, then, alas! then to my great sorrow, is evil present with me.
Ah, when I promise myself most comfort and communion in the enjoyment of my God, how do I then find a bad heart in the best season, a dead and drowsy spirit when I would be most spiritual in the duties I perform!”
From whence we learn, That the holiest and best of saints in this their imperfect state, do sensibly feel, and sadly bewail the working of sin and corruption in them, and that in the very seasons and opportunities of their communion with God; When I would do good, then evil is present with me.