This morning you are receiving 2 scripture readings to consider during the day. I’ve spoken before of God’s test of Abraham’s faith and that God’s test of Abraham would be to the glory of God. There should be no doubt that Abraham had a very special relationship with God. It was a relationship though that was not built overnight. There were many trials, tribulations and stormy seas that went into building that special bond between God and one of His children. In your first scripture reading today I hope you’ll understand that the journey God had planned for Abraham started first with a single step of faith. Do you have a faith that allows that first step in the journey or will your faith keep you home. Here is your next scripture reading and devotion.

No Condemnation

Romans 8:1-4

Some believers are plagued by feelings of condemnation. Either they think they’ll never live up to God’s expectations for them or they’re nearly drowning in guilt over past sins. These men and women cannot seem to shake the sense that God is displeased with their puny efforts at being Christ like.

The book of Romans confronts this lie head-on: “There is therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). When the Savior went to the cross on our behalf, He lifted the blame from our shoulders and made us righteous before God. Those feelings of condemnation do not belong to us; they are from Satan. He amplifies our guilt and feelings of inadequacy and then suggests that’s how the Lord feels about His “wayward child.” Nothing could be further from the truth. Our sins are wiped clean, and we are chosen and loved by God.

Condemnation is reserved for those who reject the Lord (John 3: 36). Sin is a death sentence (Rom. 6:23). Anyone who chooses to cling to sin instead of seeking divine forgiveness must pay the penalty, which is an eternity separated from God. Two synonyms of condemn are ‘denounce’ and ‘revile.’ Those words certainly describe Jesus’ statement to unbelievers in (Matthew 25: 41) “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, Depart from me, accursed ones.”

There is no condemnation for those who receive Jesus Christ as their Savior. The believer’s penalty for sin is paid, and he can stand blameless before God. Trust in the Lord’s love and let go of Satan’s lie. God’s beloved children are covered by His grace and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.