Which Wolf Are You Feeding? Reflections on Romans 8:1-11

July 08, 2014 by Alyce McKenzie

Continued from Page 1

One evening, an elderly Cherokee brave told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between two wolves inside us all. One is evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith." The grandson thought about it for a minute and asked his grandfather, "Which wolf wins?" The old Cherokee replied, "The one that you feed."

The Spirit of God or the forces that would misuse the good gifts of the Creator—the choice of what to focus on is clear.

By the power and presence of God within us, we can choose righteousness and life, both now and forever.

Sources Consulted

Ernest Best, The Cambridge Bible Commentary on the New English Bible: The Letter of Paul to the Romans

Richard Kearney*, On Stories: Thinking in Action*

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About Alyce McKenzie

Alyce M. McKenzie is the George W. and Nell Ayers Le Van Professor of Preaching and Worship at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.

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