Daily Devotions

Today’s Bible reading is Romans chapter 9

(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)

As mysterious as the Gospel of grace is there are some things about it that are certain. First of all, God is sovereign in salvation. We may not always understand the purposes of God but we can know that God is in charge. God is the Potter and we are the clay, therefore we do not tell the Potter what to do. We may not always understand God’s plan but we can accept by faith that God knows what is best. Secondly, it is certain that salvation is by faith alone, in Christ alone. Those who try to earn righteousness through works will not achieve it. Only those who come to God through faith in Jesus will receive God’s righteousness. Thirdly, it is certain that those who reject Jesus Christ will perish. God takes no pleasure in pouring out His wrath, but even in doing so He demonstrates His righteousness. God is merciful and willing to show mercy to those who believe the Gospel. Fourth, it is certain that people are lost and need Jesus in their life. Paul was burdened for lost people and so should we. Paul said, “I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.” His burden was so great that He even stated that he was willing to be accursed from Christ that Israel be saved. If it were possible are you willing to go to hell in order that someone else be saved? Paul was. If you are not willing to walk across the street to explain the Gospel to them, I doubt you’d be willing to suffer an eternity in hell in their behalf. The Good news is you don’t have to, Jesus Christ already did it! He suffered an eternity in hell on the cross that people might be saved. What are you willing to suffer or sacrifice that others may hear?

Prayer: “God You are Holy, we are humbled by Your great wisdom and power and sovereignty, You are the Potter, we are the clay, mold us into Your image. Give us a heart for the Gospel and heart for the lost like Paul. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron