“You were taught… to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self.”

Romans 10:1, 3
One of the ways God got my attention 20 years ago was by showing me that my own acts of moral goodness were merely “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6) compared to His moral perfection. I performed “good” acts to earn approval, to get into Stanford, or to feel proud of myself. I did nothing out of true selflessness, and even now my best deeds are tainted. I came to realize that I could never earn my ticket to heaven.

When I try to explain this to my non-Christian family members and friends, they look at me as if I’m out of my mind. It’s heartbreaking for any Christ-follower when those you love most aren’t interested in hearing about matters of faith. Fortunately, the Bible reminds us that God is perfectly loving, His justice will be done, and there are no limits to His power. He has a good reason for everything He does and does not do. We can be assured His timing is perfect.

So even when I experience an emotional burden for my non-believing friends, I can trust that God is in control, and He knows what He’s doing.



Scripture Focus

1 Corinthians 1:18-25

Insight

“The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18)

Bible In A Year

  • 1 Kings 11-12
  • Proverbs 5
  • Hebrews 5-6

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