Message Magazine’s Online Devotional for Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Today’s Scripture Promise:
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1).
Today’s Observation:
Romans eight is one of the very first chapters I memorized when I became a Christian. It is rich with mind liberating truths, and the opening promise is no exception.
The Bible says that there is no condemnation (that is, no eternal death penalty for sin) against those who are abiding in a relationship with Jesus Christ and continue living by the power of the Holy Spirit. The previous chapter is a wearying discussion of the sense of utter hopelessness in those who are in bondage to sin. Before we submit ourselves to God, His holy law stands as an all-knowing, unbiased indicter of our characters. Even without a thriving relationship with God, we are often able to see that we are living in rebellion against the Bible, but have no innate power to change. And having brilliantly described this fact, Paul opens our theme chapter where chapter six left off—with hope and victory. God’s promise is that those who choose to allow Him to crucify our evil habits and desires will be delivered from condemnation. He said that He would rescue, forgive, empower, keep, and reward those who submit our wills completely to Him.
Today’s Marching Orders:
Submit to God! There will be many opportunities today to choose between right and wrong. Temptations never ease up. The best choice any of us can make, is to pray for strength every time we are tempted, and then accept God’s power to help us walk away from the temptation immediately
