Requirements

Text: Romans 13:8-14

Theme: God requires us to live godly lives for all to see.

Key verses: “Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law. This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living. Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarreling and jealousy. Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires” (v. 11-14).

What God said to me: Dwayne, this passage is for you. Your thought life has run amok. You haven’t been bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. This is your responsibility. I will not make you do this. Paul made it as clear and simple and straightforward as he could. You (and all my children) are without excuse. You must love others with a godly love–with my love. You must strive to see them as I see them, as people created and loved by me, as souls needing a Savior. You cannot look at others with selfish motives, wanting them to fulfill your desires and hopes and dreams. You must look to me to give you what you need. I am your only source for lasting peace and satisfaction. You must die to your flesh. Do not allow it to rule you even in the slightest or for a moment. Be sure everything you do and think brings glory to me. That way no matter how many layers someone might peel back on you, it would still reveal the same consistent message: that you know and love and follow and worship me. Clothe yourself with my Son’s presence. Think about that metaphor. You should be literally wrapped up in his presence. His life should engulf you and emanate from you. Let that be your one and only goal today–to set your mind on things above and not on things on earth and to be totally lost in my love.

What I said to God: Thank You, most worthy Lord, for speaking to me today. I appreciate You meeting with me and still calling me Your own. I know that nothing can snatch me out of Your hand–not even myself and my stupid mistakes and sinful ways. I praise You for forgiveness and cleansing, and I choose to follow You alone today. Help me be wrapped up in Your presence, precious Jesus, Savior, Friend. You truly are my all in all. Help me live like it!