July 22

No Condemnation

Today’s Scripture Readings:  Psalm 77:16-20 | 2 Chronicles 6:12 – 7:10 | Romans 7:14 – 8:8 | Proverbs 19:24-25

Today’s Scripture Focus: Romans 7:14 – 8:8

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:1-2 ESV).

“No Condemnation” (8:1), Yet many of us carry around a load of shame, guilt and condemnation. The good news is this: There is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. God is the Father of compassion who gladly runs out to meet all of his prodigals. He runs to us, embraces us, kisses us, brings the best robe and rings for our fingers and declares that “it’s time to party” for the prodigal has come home.

Our heavenly Father loves us deeply and does not condemn us. But we do not always live as if that is true. Many times others treat us as if that is not true. Their words shame us and condemn us. How unlike Jesus who said, “Neither do I condemn you, Go and sin no more.”

God has chosen each of us full well knowing our past, our present and our future. He knows all about us: our ups and downs, our victories, our low points, our times of devotion and our times of rebellion. The amazing truth of scripture is that “while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” He sees our desperate condition and loves us enough to send his Son to die for us to clean us up and give us a new and better life. It is amazing, but in his grace he knows all about us and chooses us anyway. Truly, there is no condemnation for those who are his children.

Are you living in the freedom of knowing that there is “no condemnation?” Spend time in his presence and find the life and peace that come from that truth sinking deeply into your heart.  This is a truth that can set you free.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the freedom of living without condemnation. Thank you for the joy and peace that it brings to live without shame. When others try to condemn or shame us, remind us of your love and acceptance. Amen.