The Best of the Portals of Prayer

Read: Romans 5:20 – 6:15 // Psalm 15

“Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?”
Romans 6:3

Work to Be Done

“Cheap grace” describes an attitude that views salvation like a “get out of jail free” card – we can do whatever we want because we are forgiven. Every time we consciously sin, we are giving this attitude. We have been freed from sin in order to live an abundant life. The Law of God guides us in that life. The Commandments are not God’s way of keeping us from doing fun things; they make our life better. A parent tells a child to avoid the “red burners” on the top of the stove not to be a spoil-sport, but to keep the child from getting burned. Likewise, God gives us the Commandments to keep us from harm. Violating them leads to broken relationships, injured bodies, and devastated souls.
Our salvation was not cheap; it cost Jesus His life. Being saved means the Holy Spirit now dwells in us. He gives us the ability to willingly keep the Law, though we still contend with our sinful nature. We are not saved by keeping the law, but we endeavor to avoid sin out of thanksgiving for Jesus’ love and knowing His Law is His plan for an amazing life.

Lord, thank You for saving me from my sins. Help me to live a life pleasing to You. Amen.

June 13, 2011