MARCH 26: God’s Faithfulness
(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
In ancient Rome, one of the goddesses worshiped by the people was Justitia, the goddess of justice. Statues of Lady Justice often show the goddess blindfolded and holding a set of scales. This is meant to symbolize that Justice is blind to any kind of prejudice, and the scales are evenly measured for everybody, regardless of their education or status.
As a Roman citizen, the Apostle Paul was well educated and very familiar with cultural customs and teachings. In his ongoing response to some Jewish citizens in Rome, he uses the cultural understanding of Lady Justice as well as the Old Testament to show that all people – both Jews and Gentiles – are on an evenly weighed scale in the sight of God. The Jews can celebrate that God chose them to reveal His righteousness, but this doesn’t mean they are better than others.
He then quotes a number of Old Testament passages, ending with, “They don’t know where to find peace. They have no fear of God at all.” Isaiah 59:7-8, Psalm 36:1. In other words, Paul is saying, “Your way of thinking isn’t leading you to discovering real peace. Perhaps you ought to think differently.”
READING & JOURNALING:
If your thoughts about God, yourself, and others aren’t helping you experience real peace in life, what can you do about that? (See Romans 12:2)
Who is somebody you know who lives with a high level of peace and contentment in life? Consider asking them what thoughts they have about God, themselves, and others. Also consider asking them what spiritual practices help them to experience this level of peace.
PRAYER:
Today, write out your own prayer to God. Confess any negative or unhealthy thoughts you have about God, yourself, and/or others, and pray for wisdom in how God may be able to help you change your way of thinking (Romans 12:2).
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
The F260 is a Scripture Reading Plan designed to read through the foundational passages of the Bible through a year (September 2019 – August 2020). It is a separate reading from the daily devotional but is included for those who would like to engage with the Scriptures on a deeper level throughout the year.
Read: Esther 1 & 2
Note: Are you looking for a Study Bible to help you engage with the Scriptures at a deeper level? If so, click here for some recommendations.
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