Position

Text: Romans 8:31-34

Theme: As His chosen, we are right with God.

Key verses: “…If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen fo his own? No one–for God himself has given us right standing with himself. Who will condemn us? No one–for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us” (v. 31b-34).

What God said to me: Dwayne, my child, I have much still for you to do, much more for you to write, many more for you to impact. But if you are not careful you are going to mess around and fall prey to your own fleshly ways. You let your guard down. You can never do that. The enemy is too strong for you. You must stay focused and humble and determined to finish well. Take captive every thought to the obedience of Christ. Yes, I have chosen you, and yes, you are right in my sight because of my Son dying, living and interceding for you. Nonetheless, you can stumble and shipwreck all on your own if you don’t watch and pray. Now, regarding this passage, this may be one of the most encouraging and powerful Scriptures in all of my Word. Can you imagine the scene when Paul first penned these words? What resolve, what joy he must have felt in sharing such powerful truth. This was matter-of-fact stuff for Paul. He lived and breathed these truths every day. They were a deep, deep part of him. They need to be ingrained deeply in you, as well, Dwayne. You are right in my eyes, period. According to Paul’s words here, you don’t have to do anything to be right. You are right 1) because I have chosen you, 2) because Jesus died for you, 3) because he rose again and lives today, and 4) because he sits at my right hand interceding for you. That is way more than enough evidence needed to convince you you are indeed right in my eyes. I love you unconditionally. Everything you have ever done or ever will do has been paid for and forgiven because of the blood my Son shed for you. I see his sacrifice, his blood, his covering when I look at you. I see you as my precious child. No one, and I mean no one, can separate you from me. No can can accuse you or condemn you to me. I will not hear of it! I only hear the voice of my dear Son and your big Brother telling me why you were worth dying for and why you are accepted in the Beloved. You truly have no idea how privileged you are to be one of my chosen ones. Now, go out and tell someone else today, so they too can be chosen and cleansed and right.

What I said to God: Wow Lord, I am once again blown away by Your powerful and loving words to me through Paul, your servant. I do not deserve anything You have given me, and yet, you have freely given me all things. Oh what love the Father has bestowed on us that we should be called the children of God. I’m forever changed and grateful! Please help me not keep Your love inside me; may I share it with those I come in contact with each day. Please grant me holy boldness to share Your love and truth.