Living Free - Dec. 5, 2013
No Condemnation
Today's Scripture
"So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus." - (Romans 8:1 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
Many of us have become spiritually confused after abortion, thinking we are being punished by God. We are sure he hates us for what we have done. In our ignorance and fear, we may picture an angry judge, doling out endless punishment. But condemnation is not part of God's plan for resolving our spiritual crisis. Jesus came to save the world, not condemn and destroy us.
No matter what your situation, the healing mercy of Jesus is measureless. The Bible tells us all sin—not just the big ones—separates us from God, but Jesus came to forgive all sin—not just the little ones.
But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. (Romans 5:8-9 NLT)
Consider this …
No condemnation. What a beautiful promise. That means there is hope ahead. No matter what your situation or issue, there is new life in Christ.
Once you choose wholeness, the love of Christ can put you on the path to freedom. Ask God to help you face your part in the decision to end the life of a child . . . or more than one child. Yes, other people were involved and need to face God too, but for now Jesus calls for you to review your own actions. Taking responsibility for your own decisions will help you face the sins embedded in your mistakes instead of becoming embittered over the sins and mistakes of others.
Jesus is calling you to move past the futility of blaming others . . . or yourself . . . or even God. Ask for his forgiveness. And receive it. He already paid the penalty of all our sin. He does not condemn you. Stop condemning yourself and ask him to help you put the past behind and move on.
Father, somehow I have felt this sin was too big for you to forgive. But I do believe Jesus died for my sins, including the sin of abortion. Please forgive me and help me forgive myself. Help me move on, free from all condemnation. Thank you for your unconditional love. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Cradle My Heart: Finding God's LOVE After Abortion by Kim Ketola. In this book, Kim seeks to help those hurt by abortion to grieve with hope. Sharing her story and the stories of ten other women, she reveals that God's love is not a casualty of the abortive process. With an appendix of helpful resources and a study and discussion guide included, Cradle My Heart is a timely and important resource for the hurting woman, the counselor, and the church.
With an understanding and empathetic voice, Kim Ketola exposes the hurt in your heart, reveals the healing in God's heart, and brings the two together to create a whole heart where restoration and celebration are possible.
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