Today's Scripture
"It doesn't matter if people are civilized and educated, or if they are uncivilized and uneducated. I must tell the good news to everyone. That's why I am eager to visit all of you in Rome. I am proud of the good news! It is God's powerful way of saving all people who have faith, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. The good news tells how God accepts everyone who has faith, but only those who have faith. It is just as the Scriptures say, 'The people God accepts because of their faith will live.'" - Romans 1:14-17 CEV
Thoughts for Today
Today's scripture reveals the apostle Paul's enthusiasm about sharing the gospel, the good news about Jesus, to everyone--civilized and uncivilized, educated and uneducated, Jew and Gentile. Why was he never ashamed to share the gospel with others? Because he believed with all his heart that the gospel reveals the power of God to us and that through believing the gospel we are saved from our sin. He was eager to share the good news because he knew the gospel brings salvation to all who believe. And he believed that the potential results of his testimony far outweighed any rejections or danger that might come.
Jesus has called every believer to share the gospel with others. Are you as eager as Paul was to share the good news? Or is your witness hindered by fears that are common to many … fear of what others would say … fear of being misunderstood … fear of losing friends … fear of being perceived as a fanatic.
Consider this …
These types of fears are natural--but not productive. Think about opportunities you have had to share Jesus with someone … but didn't. What was holding you back? Ask God to help you identify and overcome any obstacles to your witness.
Father, I want to be like Paul--eager and bold in sharing the gospel with others. Help me to overcome my fears. May the Holy Spirit guide me and embolden me in telling others about you both through my life and through my words. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Completely Free! A Group Study of Romans 1-8 by Dan Strickland. Everyone struggles from time-to-time, but we can have confidence that in Christ we are completely free from sin's slavery, from condemnation, and from fear of failure. This group study of Romans 1-8 and 12 helps Christians break out of the dull routine of a stagnant spiritual life. Applying the truths found in Romans can transform any believer into a person eager to follow God's will. This study can also serve as a powerful evangelistic tool by explaining the message of salvation as presented in Romans. Suggested uses include home Bible studies, cell groups, Sunday school classes, support groups and personal enrichment.
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