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“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of
God for the salvation of everyone who believes; first for the Jew, then for the
Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a
righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘the
righteous will live by faith’” Romans 1:16-17 (NIV)
“I am not ashamed of
the gospel. . .” Paul states this very firmly. He was transformed from one
who terrorized those who believed to one who evangelized for Christ. Today we
should not be ashamed of our relationship with God. We had an experience
recently where a neighbor told us that he explained that Hubby and I had always
tried to help those in need. They had a serious need and, after praying about
that circumstance in their lives, we were able to make an offer to get them
through this time.
“. . . the power of
God. . . ” This is a faith statement. Paul, who down played his credentials
speaks here of the awesomeness of God’s Word.
” . . . for the
salvation of everyone who believes . . .” Did you catch the wording here? of everyone who believes. Let’s see, if
a wealthy man invites God into his heart in one part of town and a homeless man
asks God into his heart in another
end of town, did God accept these invitations equally? Yes, He did. God makes
Himself available to each of His children, rich or poor alike.
“. . . righteousness
from God is revealed . . .” God shows what He expects from us through His
word and His actions. As His children, we don’t have to guess.
“. . . a
righteousness that is by faith from first to last . . .” Because we believe
in God, He deems us righteous. We live for Him and He chooses to call us His
children. He loves us even when we haven’t acknowledged Him. When we do ask Him
into our hearts, we find out how sweet a relationship with God is.
“‘. . . the righteous
will live by faith’” God deems His children to be worthy of living with Him
in heaven. Until He calls us there we are to live out our lives trusting Him
and believing in Him as we walk on this earth, our temporary homes.
Click to hear a hymn of faith: Christ the Solid Rock
Click to hear a hymn of faith: Christ the Solid Rock
I caught your reference to the hymn at the very end there. I grew up on the hymns and have a real appreciation for them. Took me back to my childhood, Cecelia. :D
ReplyDeleteRhonda: Thank you for your warm comment. I find myself not always needing to use the hymnal when we sing a hymn at church. It's as if the words are buried deep in my mind. I also have times that I have a hymn or a chorus go through my mind during the week.
DeleteThat Christ may dwell in your hearts BY FAITH.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Richard, for your insightful comment.
Delete