If you’re a follower of Jesus, joy should be a way of life. Why? You’ve been completely forgiven. There’s no longer a reason for guilt or shame.
Sounds like a good reason for joy to me.
The Bible says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1 NIV).
Romans 8 was originally written in Greek. The word translated “no” is the strongest possible negative in Greek. It’s as if God was saying, “No, no, no—not in a thousand years, not in a million years, not a chance in your lifetime.”
That’s important—because one of the biggest reasons people lose their joy is guilt. Guilt and shame have the power to steal your joy.
All of us make mistakes. But God doesn’t want you to live in self-condemnation, constantly telling yourself, “I should be better.”
So how does God want you to handle your guilt? By coming clean and confessing your wrong. Go to God and say, “I’m sorry. Please forgive me.” And then he’ll wipe away your sin.
Jesus Christ died on the cross so your sins would be forgiven and you’d no longer have to live with guilt! And he didn’t just die for the sins you’ve already committed. He also died for the ones you haven’t committed yet. They’re all covered under the cross.
Jesus took your condemnation. That’s why he died. Your sins have been paid for. You don’t have to pay for them again.
That’s salvation, and it’s your most important reason for joy. It’s the joy of a clear conscience.
You can experience the same joy as King David had when he wrote Psalm 13: “My heart rejoices in your salvation” (Psalm 13:5 NIV).
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
Your Gift Brings Hope to the World
Transform your prayer life with God’s Word!
True breakthrough from the struggles of life begins with prayer—and there is no better place to start cultivating a powerful prayer life than the Bible.
Discover the biblical wisdom you need to transform the way you pray when you dive into this special collection of verses from God’s Word. You’ll be inspired and encouraged by Scripture as you learn to trust in his promises.
Drawing key verses from Pastor Rick’s "40 Days of Prayer" teaching series, this set of 52 beautifully designed cards will help you memorize God’s Word so you can access it when you need it most—and it’s our thanks for your gift today to help more people experience the transformative power of prayer through Daily Hope!
Thank you for helping share the hope of Jesus Christ. May you enjoy a time of breakthrough as you fill your heart and mind with the truth of Scripture.
*The USA IRS code permits you to deduct the amount of your financial gift to Daily Hope that exceeds the fair market value of “current offer” materials you received from Daily Hope.
