For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. Romans 1:16 NIV
If you have ever had the privilege of meeting anyone in recovery, it won't be long before you hear the story of God's redemptive power in their life. Of course, the circumstances of how they arrived in that place, and their experiences, are different; however, the success stories always end the same way, the day they turned to God for deliverance. The ones that are still struggling are the ones who have not yet surrendered their will to God.
While we all may not have experienced such radical changes, our salvation is no less remarkable. We are all sinners in recovery. We acknowledged an emptiness in our lives that the love of Christ could only fill. Because of this, we can face each day filled with the Holy Spirit and confident in our knowledge that God within us is far greater than any temptations we face.
The scripture says it is the gospel – the good news of Jesus Christ – that brings us the message of God's power. Later in Romans 10:14, Paul adds, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" Therefore, as disciples, we must unashamedly share the gospel, whatever our salvation story. It is in the truth and hope of God's promise that we find deliverance.
God, we thank you for the power of salvation and the redemptive message found in the good news of Jesus Christ. Please help us today remember our deliverance and help us in our recovery from sin. Bless us as we share the gospel with others that they might hear, and come to know the hope found in you. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Comments