Read: Romans 4:1-12
Think: Paul writes in Romans 4:5, “But people are counted as righteous, not because of their work, but because of their faith in God who forgives sinners.” Paul often referred to the Old Testament scriptures when explaining the Gospel message, especially to the Jews. For example, in Romans 4:6, he continues, “David also spoke of this when he described the happiness of those who are declared righteous without working for it: “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of sin.” Sin puts a colossal wedge between us and God. Sin destroys faith. Sin is not passive; it chases after us. Sin is meant to ruin our lives. Paul pleads with the Romans to let go of sin and be forgiven so that they might be counted right with God!
Act: Galatians 5 is Paul’s “sin” list; Colossians 3:3-5 adds more to Paul’s list. These verses are blatant reminders of the sinful habits that will put a colossal wedge between anyone and God. Yet Paul, in Galatians 5:24 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there.” Why do you think that Paul does not “let up” on sin during the opening chapters of the book of Romans? Take a few minutes to respond to these questions: Do you tune out as your read these chapters—if so, why? How do these verses make you feel about your current spiritual life? What do the first few chapters in Romans make you think about your culture and/or your community?
Pray: Dear Lord, I ask you to search me, know me, and test me today (Psalm 139:23, 24;). I ask Your Holy Spirit to speak to me regarding any area of my life that is separating me from You or others. I will wait in these next few moments to hear and record anything I feel or think You might be saying to me about sin in my life: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Now, please forgive me, O Lord, of these very habits that separate me from You and others. Restore to me the joy that comes with forgiveness. Thank You, Lord. Amen.
Be full of faith today!
