Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2 (NIV)
Earlier this week I had a reason to be in a courthouse in Boston as a character witness. Before we went into the courtroom, the attorney explained that the judge could rule for or against the client based on the information she had heard. Each side would present their case—the facts as they saw them proving innocence or guilt, but ultimately, the decision would be the judge’s.
In our case, we are guilty before God, the ultimate judge. As Romans 3:10 reminds us, "There is no one righteous, not even one." And Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." There is no case of innocence that we can plead. But God, in His infinite mercy, overlooks the overwhelming evidence of our guilt and does not condemn us. Instead, through Christ Jesus, He offers us spiritual freedom. He knows our weakness and propensity to sin, so He sets us free with a guide, the Holy Spirit, to lead us in His right paths.
Gracious Father, we come before You with gratitude for the incredible gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who has set us free from sin and death. Thank You for reminding us through Your Word that, though we are guilty and fall short, there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.
Lord, help us to live in the freedom and peace that You have given us. May the Holy Spirit guide us in all our ways, leading us on paths of righteousness. Strengthen our faith and resolve so we may reflect Your love and mercy to those around us.
Teach us to refrain from judging others, remembering that we have all sinned and fallen short of Your glory. May we show others the same compassion and understanding You have shown us.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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