APRIL 9: Ruled by Grace
(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Throughout the week, we’ve been looking at different false narratives that impact our lives. These include:
I will have peace with God when (fill-in-the-blank).
I will have peace with myself when (fill-in-the-blank).
I’ve accepted the Gospel. I don’t need to hear it again.
There’s one more false narrative that Paul addresses in Romans 5. Apparently, some of the Roman Christians were believing that sin was still ruling their lives. Paul refuses to allow this way of thinking to continue. He writes in Romans 5:21, So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
In other words, Paul is saying, “Sin did rule over all people…but now God’s grace rules instead. Do not live by thinking that you are ruled by sin. Instead, live knowing that you are ruled by grace. By allowing grace to completely reign in your life, you will experience the eternal life God has for you, now. Not when you die. But right now, this very day!”
READING & JOURNALING:
Do you live your life with the thought that sin rules your life and is leading you to death, or with the thought that grace rules your life and you can experience eternal life right now?
In your Study Bible of choice, read through the commentary notes for Romans 5. What if anything did you learn about God or how God sees you?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I confess that there are still occasions in which I see myself as being a sinner (ruled by sin) and not a saint (ruled by grace). But I recognize that the root of these thoughts comes from me desiring to rule my life instead of simply walking in step with You and allowing You to lead the way. Forgive me for making my world my own kingdom, instead of resting in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(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: Nehemiah 11
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.
south ridge blog 