“The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more”, Romans 5:20 (NIV). Given how much evil we see on a worldwide basis today, and the considering the spiritual principle revealed in this passage, I conclude that we must be in the time of the greatest outpouring of grace in history. I know that sounds counter-intuitive, but clearly, the volume of mankind’s brokenness invites the outpouring of God’s mercy! As things turn darker even the smallest light becomes all the more effective. Now is no time for believers to “run for the hills” as some suggest. Now is the time to be the “city on the hill” (Matthew 5:14); even small faith looms large among those with no faith. But not with words alone, for “Yes, a man will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works. Show me your faith without works, and I by my works will show you my faith.” James 2:18 (WEV). So there’s that. Not just words.Father strengthen my resolve to live my faith out loud in spite of my many failings. Grace to me and grace through me to others.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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