Romans 8:1-11

Be Still: Father help me as I read your Word. By your Spirit, I want to become more like Jesus today. Amen. 

Read: Romans 8:1-11

'Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.' (v1,2)

Encounter: I wasn’t in trouble all the time at school, but I do remember having to sit in detention once and writing out ‘lines’! Oh man, the shame was real – I had been condemned for my actions! St Paul picks up this theme in what is a key moment in his letter to the Romans and which is also key to understanding the Christian faith. 

Because of Jesus, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. ‘Condemnation' is a very strong expression of disapproval, pronouncing someone or something as morally wrong and deserving of punishment. If you are in Christ Jesus today, there is now no condemnation (it is all completely gone). Even though we deserved it, it has all been taken away. The condemnation simply doesn’t exist anymore. This is difficult, but essential to grasp. When we sin and mess up, we can often get caught in shame as if we’re in constant detention. This is not where God wants us to live. 

Apply: The Holy Spirit brings life and freedom, and we are being sanctified (made holy) by him. Sanctification is a process. Maybe there are areas of your life on which the law of the Spirit is shining a spotlight, or bringing to the surface for sanctification? You can be sure that if the Holy Spirit is highlighting things that you need to confess, or habits you’d love to break and be free from, then he’s not highlighting these things to detain you in shame. He’s wanting to lead you into freedom. 

Devote: Thank you Jesus for your blood. Thank you for your liberating and life-giving Spirit in me. Set me free and make me holy.