Roman's 5:8

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

• A few thoughts:

Wow. If you can read that without saying, "wow", you need to read it again. Sometimes I start getting this arrogant attitude that judges others. I'll look down at them. What right do I have? If I am good, my goodness comes from God's Spirit within me, not from me.

And how miserable and unworthy I am. Don't get me wrong. Since God saved me, He's not only washed away my past sin, but taken away many of my most base desires. He's changed me from the inside out. Much of my self-centered nature is completely changed. Thank God.

But if I had to stand before God today... and if He judged me on who I am... EVEN THE CHANGED ME... I'd have no hope. My righteousness is as filthy rags. I'm so glad that God isn't expecting for me to EARN His love. And I write this today with a humble spirit, knowing that it is only because of Christ's sacrifice described in Romans 5:8 that I am in good standing with an Almighty and Righteous God.

But I am not always this humble. I really do judge all to often. I'm like the pharisee in the eighteenth chapter of Luke -- Jesus said to be like the tax collector.

• A prayer:

God, thank you for bringing me to Your Word again; and to this verse. Thank you for reminding me that I didn't earn my way into salvation, but that You saw me at my worst, and loved me then -- enough to give Your Son. Help me not to judge. Fill me with Your love, which is not proud. Transform me. Renew my mind. Thank You again for Your grace.

From the Heart and Mind of:

Alan K. Manning