Romans 1:16

New International Version (NIV)

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.

For Meditation

With joy overflowing in me this morning, I stand before the throne of grace to shamelessly make this declaration with the Apostle Paul (Rm.1:16), and to affirm my faith in “Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:30).

1. I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that has brought me salvation (Rm. 1:16).
2. I am not ashamed of Jesus Christ, for He is my Savior and Lord, “the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal. 2:20) to reconcile me to God (2 Cor. 5:18-19).
3. I am not ashamed to be a servant of Christ Jesus, because it is a privilege and honor to serve the King of kings and Lord of lords than any other person in the world. That’s why He is my Adonai – Master, Lord!
4. I am not ashamed to run away from lustful and sensual appeals, and any offer that are offensive to the holiness of God in Christ (Gen. 39: 12), who is Jehovah-Nissi, the Lord my Banner (Ex. 17:15). He leads me in battle against the flesh and gives me victory on a daily, consistent basis (Rm. 7:25), as I yield to the indwelling Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:16).
5. Finally, I am not ashamed to be identified with Christ Jesus and be called, Christian, because it is the highest honor any person could be accorded in the entire universe (Acts 11:26). My focus in life, therefore, is that in the power of the Holy Spirit, I will live up to the responsibilities the name of Jesus bestows on me – to glorify the Father with my life (1 Cor. 10:31).

I pray that you can make these shameless declarations with me today and liberate yourself from the prison of sin and human philosophies that are dragging the world into eternal damnation.

So: Don’t be sorry for me, my friend! I am happy and content with my situation in Christ, and I look forward to the day when I will be carried into His eternal presence (1 Thess. 4:16-17) and to see Him face to face (1 Cor. 13:12). That’s my joy and daily encouragement – the hope of glory! (Col. 1:27; 1 Pt. 1:3)

But, maybe you need Christ Jesus today, so why don’t you dial His number in heaven now:  I Believe – I repent – I confess – I surrender – to you, Jesus (Jn. 1:12-13; Rm. 10:9-10). He keeps a line that is never busy and your conversation with Him will never be interrupted.

Maybe this scripture will encourage you: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (13).

See you in heaven sometime soon

Shalom