"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)
Thursday, November 21, 2024 - Day 326 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 22,23; James 2)
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.
1. Jesus sinners doth receive;
Oh, may all this saying ponder
Who in sin's delusions live
And from God and heaven wander!
Here is hope for all who grieve--
Jesus sinners doth receive.
2. We deserve but grief and shame,
Yet His words, rich grace revealing,
Pardon, peace, and life proclaim.
Here their ills have perfect healing
Who with humble hearts believe--
Jesus sinners doth receive.
5. I, a sinner, come to Thee
With a penitent confession;
Savior, mercy show to me
Grant for all my sins remission.
Let these words my soul relieve:
Jesus sinners doth receive.
7. Now my conscience is at peace,
From the Law I stand acquitted;
Christ hath purchased my release
And my every sin remitted.
Naught remains my soul to grieve,--
Jesus sinners doth receive.
(The Lutheran Hymnal #324)
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
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