Romans 3:25-31 (ESV)
25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. 27 Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28 For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. 29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, 30 since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. 31 Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.
Takeaways:
– There are many who still hold to this idea that they can improve themselves and become a Christian or remain a Christian by getting better. It may even sound modest or determined, but it’s a lie and a denial of the faith.
– Jesus says to all of us, “it does not matter what you have done, trust me, I will save you, I will make you Mine.”
– Stop condemning yourself for past sins which Christ’s blood has removed. You do not need any more resolutions to live a better life. Trust, surrender, submit, follow Him, and taste His sweet peace at last.