Galatians 2:17-21
But if, while seeking to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were also found to be sinners, then is Christ, a servant of sin? Certainly not! “In fact, if I build up again those things that I destroyed, I bring on myself the judgment of being a lawbreaker. Indeed, through the law I died to the law that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I am now living in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not regard the grace of God as nothing. As a matter of fact, if righteousness is through the law, then Christ died for nothing!”
Dear Lord Jesus,
During this time of the year—Lent—we realize how we still chase after the desires of sin, even though you have declared us not guilty. Paul reminded us that our lives are changed that we should not be looking to satisfy our urges but to live for you. If we allow those desires to do whatever we want, we bring judgment upon ourselves. But we cannot change on our own; we need you. Lord, send your Holy Spirit to strengthen our faith so that we no longer live to chase after our every urge. Keep us from those thoughts that we can do whatever we want because you have forgiven us. These thoughts cheapen the grace you have given to us; your suffering and death then meant nothing. Lord, you were all in; you gave your life for our sins so let us always see the importance of your work and let our focus remain on you. We are still both sinners and saints; while we are here, we still sin. So let us bring our sins before you and change our desires to love you for all the ways you have loved us. Then let us share your love and justification with those seeking something different from the urges of the flesh that they too will find your grace and mercy. Thank you for loving us. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Jesus was all in to save you, living a perfect life and dying an innocent death for your salvation.