THE GOSPEL SETS FREE
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1 (NLT)
When we pass from death to life, we become a new person in Him. This is a supernatural, miraculous event. We are set free from our sin, no longer compelled to obey the desires of our flesh (see Romans 6). This is truly good news! Unfortunately, we sometimes forget that we’ve been set free. We focus on our past decisions that are not glorifying to God, and we begin to feel overwhelming amounts of shame.
But shame never comes from God.
The Holy Spirit convicts us and leads us to repentance. But there’s a distinct difference between guilt and shame. Guilt is about what you’ve done. Shame is about who you are. Shame distorts your identity and leads you to believe lies about yourself. You’re not really any different. Same old same old. God is so disappointed in you. Condemnation is coming.
But Romans 8:1, the first verse of arguably the most beautiful chapter in all of Scripture, reminds us that in Christ, there is no condemnation. The wrath of God was poured out on Jesus at the cross. He took that burden from us. Consider what David wrote:
He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
Psalm 103:12 (NLT)
If God isn’t going to remember our sins against us anymore (see Hebrews 8:12), why would we fixate on them? Why would we allow shame to dominate our thoughts? Why would we forget that we’re free? Paul encourages us in Galatians 5:1 to stay free, so let’s endeavor to do exactly that.
APPLICATION: Take a few moments to just thank God for setting you free. Reflect on what He has brought you out of. Then, read the entirety of Romans 8. Be encouraged by this beautiful chapter!
PRAYER: Father, thank You for the salvation You so freely give. Help me to walk in the confident assurance of Your grace, mercy and forgiveness. Remind me that shame doesn’t come from You. Thank You for who You are and what You’ve done. In Jesus’ name, amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?