Anyone who knows me knows that Romans 8 is one of my frequent 'go to' Scripture passages. It is a goldmine of spiritual encouragement, loaded with promise and persistent in the call to holy living. The first word is 'no condemnation' and the last 'no separation.' In between we are reminded of who we are...not slaves, but daughters and sons. We are reminded of our privilege...intimacy with Abba Fat...  Read More

"Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?" the Psalmist asks in Psalm 77:9 (CSB). The answer comes at length in Psalm 78, recounting the history of Israel's rebellion and God's grace and compassion, ending with the implied promise to David's house of an eternal monarchy (we know this is through Jesus, King of kings). Romans 7 recounts that struggle with inbred sin...  Read More

"Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid!" (Romans 6:1b-2a, KJV)So we memorized the Scripture as children. It begs the question of overcoming. Romans 7 will deal with the battle we face with sin, while Romans 8 gives the ultimate answer: the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus sets us free. Beyond doubt, E. M. Bounds is correct in his assessment of this journey to Spirit-life and Sp...  Read More

How powerful the imagery of Romans 6! Freed from the power of sin's slavery, we have been buried with Christ in baptism (dying to sin) and raised to a new life, slaves of grace. The irony of this slavery is the pure freedom it offers. We are free from judgment, free from guilt, free from shame. We are free to live our best lives. We have this hope: eternal life. For the just desert of sin is etern...  Read More

"Yet I am always with you;you hold my right hand." (Psalm 73:23, CSB)What great consolation there is in the image of a child taking a walk holding onto Father God's hand. God, holding my right hand...that is favor and security from the One in Whom I am totally and ultimately secure. Just this thought brought someone to tears this week with whom I was speaking. In their present journey they are fac...  Read More

Could you imagine a religion that depended on our good works alone? Actually, I am quite certain you can. These have made their presence know in our world, and not in ways that are convincing concerning the common good of humanity. You can also picture those who have made Christianity a religion of good works. These 'works' proponents are often the most insufferable people. They have a code they l...  Read More