Scripture to Read: Romans 3:9
As we begin, we have to do a little recap from our last devotion. We must remember that God’s Word was not written in chapters and verses, but much of God’s Word, especially the New Testament, was written as letters to believers. Remember that in Romans 3:8, some people were slandering Paul, saying Paul had taught them that they should do evil so that good could come from their evil actions. But God confirmed that His condemnation on those who refuse Him is just and righteous. So, today God has Paul continue with this question in Romans 3:9, What then? Are we better than they? In other words, God had Paul ask if the Jews then were better than the Gentiles simply because they were born Jewish. What we must always love about God and His Word is that God never leaves us hanging in the balance, wondering what is correct and what is wrong. God has Paul answer the question by saying, “No, not at all, for we have already shown that all people, whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin.” (NLT) No one is better than someone else, not even because of the family in which they were born. But this is what many of the Jews believed when God had Paul pen these words in Romans. We too can get caught up in thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought to think. But God has told us in Proverbs 3:7, Do not be wise in your own eyes. We must always guard our hearts against fleshly pride.
Challenge & Application
· What did the Jews struggle with, and how do we struggle with the same attitude at times?
· How do you guard your heart against fleshly pride and so honor our Lord through a humble spirit?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!