Scripture
Our verse for today comes from Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.”
Background
Condemnation is not a word that we use too much these days, is it? In the judicial setting, we tend to hear words like “sentenced” and “guilty verdict.” In fact, the word is only used a few times in the New Testament. But we’re pretty clear on the meaning of paying the penalty for the crime that was committed. The news stories keep us all to mindful of what goes on in our society. But what i think we’re also too familiar with is the feeling of condemnation. It comes right along with that particular area that we continue to struggle with, weighing us down and draining our spirit so that we feel like a complete failure. If you know this pain, perhaps your only relief from it is when you get to come before the Lord and worship.
Application
Maybe the rest of your week is almost too burdensome to bear. Or perhaps it’s the opposite. maybe you skate through your day doing alright, but when you get together with God, you feel guilty and condemned. The realization of how you think deep down inside, or how you have acted towards another, just overwhelms you in God’s holy presence. But whatever your situation, stop and think about all the condemnation you and the world heap on yourself. Try to fully picture the sum of it all. and then, just as sincerely, hear God say to you that there is no condemnation in Christ. none. Absolutely zero. There’s only grace, in whatever form and situation that you need it. If there’s something nagging at your soul, it needs this grace. To walk filled with the Spirit is to thank God for delivering us from our wretched selves. The Holy Spirit who lives in you is not condemned, but free. So walk in that freedom which no judge or jury can grant or take away.
Charge
As we seek Him today, keep reminding yourself that you are free in Jesus to live a life without condemnation. Take your sin and struggles to Him and receive His grace way down in your soul instead of just in your head, and see what the Spirit-filled life has in store for you today.
