The Scripture for today is Romans 6:1-7 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7 because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
“Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” What a terrible thought! Just reading that verse out loud is so abhorrent to me. I feel that sickening feeling in the pit of my stomach – you know the one. That feeling you get when you feel the pain of knowing that you have fallen short. Yes, Lord – I was impatient with my loved ones. Oh yes, Lord – I was wrapped up in my own agenda and failed to acknowledge the person in front of me who was in need of my time, talent or treasure. I am sorry, Lord – I tended to my “to do” list and neglected time with you. Forgive me Lord for my disobedience! Ugh – the weight of sin is so oppressive, so repugnant and so painful.
In the midst of my pain over my imperfections – I am suddenly overcome with a new thought. These uncomfortable and painful feelings of regret and shame are a sign of growth in me. They are a sign that I am a new creation in Christ. Once, I would have felt little to no regret over being impatient. I would have felt justified in being wrapped up in my own agenda. I would not have grieved over the loss of precious time with my Lord during a busy day. I would not have acknowledged my disobedience to the Father’s will. Although it is a lengthy process in my case – I am dying to my selfish ways and becoming more like my Savior. I continue to experience freedom from sin and new life within the very core of me. Jesus, your GRACE to this wayward and stubborn daughter is AWESOME! You… just… love… me. Your love for me helps me to love others. Your patience with me helps me to be patient with others. Your grace flowing over me helps me to give grace to others. Your loosening of the bonds of my sins frees me to share the good news of your FREEDOM with others. Thank you, Lord Jesus for my new life in you!
Lord Jesus, you came that I could experience life and live it to the full! Please continue to lead me, teach me, and rebuke me so that I can be the child that you have called me to be. Help me to reach others with the news of your love, salvation and grace. I love you, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Kelly