February 18, 2008

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ from the law of sin and death.
            
 --Romans 8:1-2

I’d like to ask you a question today. Which set of words better describe your life today: empty, defeated, and fearful or fulfilled, faithful, and courageous?

Only a life that’s being transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit can be described as fulfilled, faithful, and courageous! And if you’re anything like me, I know you want your life to be described in these ways.

Yet so often, we get hung up on our past… how we failed God… or how we sinned. I mean, think about Simon Peter! He denied Christ three times the night before our Lord was crucified. He had reason to beat himself up and disqualify himself from God’s service!

But Christian, that’s not how God operates. God renewed, restored, and used Peter… just like He can renew, restore, and use you today.

So let me ask you—is there something in your past that’s keeping you on the bench spiritually? Please think about it for a moment. Maybe it’s more than one thing. Maybe it’s a hundred things!

Whatever it is, let me assure you, if you are a child of God, your slate is clean. As Paul tells us in today’s verse, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Satan wants you to believe the exact opposite. And oh, how easy it is to believe him at times! But as a follower of Christ, you aren’t condemned for your sins, no matter how many they may be. You’re never condemned because God loves you and gave His Son’s life for you!

Focus on this truth today. And it’s my prayer that you will become a fulfilled, faithful, and courageous follower of Christ who God uses in amazing ways!

REMEMBER HOW MUCH GOD LOVES AND ACCEPTS YOU TODAY… AND EVERY DAY!