Power of God
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16
Are you ashamed of the gospel? I think most of us would answer “No” to that question, but what we really feel shows up in our actions. Paul says to the Christians of Rome that he is not ashamed of the good news about Jesus because it is the power of God to get salvation to us. The message of salvation is actually God’s power on display! Think about it: There was nothing in the entire world that could get us back to God after sin entered. There was absolutely nothing we could do to gain access to Him. As much as He wanted us back, there was only one solution, and a brilliant one at that. He demonstrated how much He loves us! He tricked His enemy into thinking he had won. He made a way to restore us back to the relationship He had in mind when He created us and He made it so simple, even the most challenged can get it. All you have to do is believe.
Sounds easy right? So why does it seem so difficult to live by faith at times? This passage says the just or the justified through the blood of Jesus should live by faith. What does that even look like? It means that all those who would call Jesus their Lord, live every area of their life submitted to Him and His plan. There is no “me” place anymore. You give Him access to every detail and keep nothing seemingly hidden from Him. For example, in your day-to-day activities, you consider what He would have you do and whom He would have you reach out to. Then when you do sense that He is leading in a direction or to someone to encourage, you follow that leading instead of ignoring it. This is truly when you know that you are not ashamed of the gospel.
This happened to me just the other day. I briefly said hi to someone at work and exchanged pleasantries. As I was getting ready to leave, I sensed a nudging to share a book with her. I didn’t want to. It was awkward and uncomfortable, and besides, I was in a hurry. However, I knew I would regret it if I didn’t, so I got back out of my car and went back over to her and briefly explained the booklet. She was very happy and then she told me it meant so much more to her than I could ever know. That was simple, but in my mind, I made it hard. I was so glad that I listened and impacted her life in that way. The thing is that I only need to listen and follow instructions. The Holy Spirit does the real work, and He is working in her heart even now. So now I am praying for her, and I feel much more compassionate and love toward her because of the encounter.
Today I want to encourage you to live every part of your life by faith. Whether it’s your family, friends, finances or work, don’t hold anything back. Make the decision today to surrender all to Him. Start each day by offering up yourself for God’s purpose. Ask Him for the courage and empowerment to impact the lives around you. When You get on His mission, you don’t have to be anxious, worried or ashamed of the gospel of Christ Jesus because He is sure to make all your obedient acts successful.
Today’s scripture reading: Romans 1:16-17
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.
17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”
The Daily Dose 