Reflection
Paul ended Romans 2 by making it clear that outward religion alone does not make us right with God. So Romans 3 begins with an obvious question: If that is true, then what advantage was there in being Jewish? And Paul answers, “Much in every way!” The Jewish people had been entrusted with the very words of God. That was an enormous privilege. God had revealed Himself to them, given them His Word, and called them into covenant relationship with Him.
But having access to the things of God is not the same as faithfully responding to God.
In much the same way, salvation does not automatically mean that every Christian is faithfully walking with God. Many Christians have had access to Scripture, churches, and years of Christian instruction, yet may still be inconsistent in their relationship with Him. And although all of those things are blessings, having access to the things of God is not the same as faithfully responding to God.
Paul then asks whether human unfaithfulness makes God unfaithful. His answer is clear: “Certainly not!” “Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar.” – Romans 3:4 NKJV
People, churches, and leaders can disappoint us, and we can disappoint them. But people’s failures do not change God’s character.
Someone may represent God poorly, but God is still faithful. Someone may hurt us while claiming to know God, but God is still trustworthy. Even when we fall short ourselves, God does not stop being who He is.
Paul also makes it clear that our wrongdoing cannot be justified by saying that God can still bring something good out of it. Our sin does not become right simply because God remains righteous and faithful.
What are we doing with what God has entrusted to us? Are we simply familiar with His Word, or are we allowing it to change the way we live?
Prayer
Merciful God, in the name of Jesus, thank You for remaining faithful even when we fall short. Help us never take for granted the privilege of knowing You and having access to Your Word. Teach us to not only hear Your Word, but to also allow it to change how we live.
When others disappoint us, help us remember that their failures do not change who You are. And when we are the ones who have been unfaithful, convict our hearts, forgive us, and draw us back to You. Help us become more faithful with everything You have given us. Help us remember that You are trustworthy, faithful, and care about us; that Your steadfast love never ceases and mercies never come to an end. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a MARVELOUS MONDAY and MIRACULOUS GOD-FILLED week.
KEEP THE FAITH!
#anotherwordfortheweek
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