Wednesday, October 25, 2023 - 100% GUILTY

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 - Day 298  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezra 4:17-5:5; Psalm 109:21-31; James 2:1-13)

100% GUILTY

“For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” (James 2:10 ESV)

 

People have a tendency to excuse their sinful activities by comparing themselves to “big” sinners (murders, rapists, drunk drivers and bank robbers). James reminds us that all sin is rebellion against God, and results in each one of us being judged 100% guilty. YOU AND I ARE LAW BREAKERS.

The good news is that there is hope for us. It comes from the One who kept God’s entire Law perfectly. Jesus was 100% innocent, yet He suffered as one who was 100% guilty when He died on Calvary’s cross for us. And now anyone who trusts in Him for forgiveness is also declared 100% innocent and fit for heaven.

How do we get to respond this undeserved gift? We get to praise our merciful God!

1. Praise, my soul, the King of heaven;

To His feet your tribute bring;

Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,

Evermore His praises sing:

Alleluia, alleluia!

Praise the everlasting King.

2. Praise Him for His grace and favor

To His people in distress;

Praise Him still the same as ever,

Slow to chide, and swift to bless:

Alleluia, alleluia!

Glorious in His faithfulness.

(“Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven,” Lutheran Service Book #793)

Heavenly Father, thank You for You amazing plan to change me from 100% guilty to 100% innocent. Please remind me to humbly admit my guilt and trust in Your gift of forgiveness every day. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape