A Lasting Solution
Have you ever faced an enormous problem that didn’t have an immediate solution? Some problems in life take time to find proper resolution.
In Romans 3, Paul begins to introduce the solution to a massive problem—sin. Sin is an act of disobedience toward God’s commands. And because God is holy and does not sin, our sin separates us from a relationship with God.
Paul goes on to explain that every person has fallen short of God’s standard for living
—we have all sinned (Romans 3:23). All of us have been separated from God.
The solution to our problem is found in Jesus. Paul says that Jesus came as a representative on our behalf, and that His death atoned for our sin problem. This means that Jesus took care of the penalty that we deserved, and He made a way for us to have a relationship with God again.
All of this was made possible through his death and resurrection. Jesus provided a permanent solution to a very serious problem, and we can partake in this gift for free. There are no prerequisites or payments necessary—other than having faith in Jesus (Romans 10:9).
Jesus’ death and resurrection not only made atonement for our present sins, but for both our past and future sins as well. This demonstrates that God is still just in dealing with our sins, but He made a way for us through Jesus.
Are there past sins you are still holding onto that have been forgiven by God? Remember that Jesus paid for every single sin so that you could walk in freedom.
Choose Thankfulness
For years, nothing in King David’s life looked “good.” His family underestimated him, giants despised him, and his father-in-law spent years trying to kill him. But the whole time, David clung to a promise that God would establish him, and eventually make him king of Israel.
David never gave up or gave in—he chose to stay close to God and wait for Him to act. And when God showed up, this is how David responded:
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
1 Chronicles 16:34 NIV
David knew that even when life didn’t look good, he served a God who IS good. And this same God is still actively fighting for us now.
Through His Son, Jesus, He has given us continual access to Himself. We can never lose His unfailing love toward us—a love that endures forever, no matter what goes on around us.
David recognized this, and proclaimed it. And every day, we have the opportunity to do the same.
Here are 2 practical ways that we can respond to ...