Have you ever wondered what it truly means to live a life transformed by grace? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with the concept of grace, especially when it comes to understanding how it impacts our daily lives. The Book of Romans offers profound insights into this, particularly in Romans 6, where the Apostle Paul challenges us to consider the transformative power of grace. This isn’t just about a one-time decision to follow Jesus; it’s about a daily choice to live in the freedom and newness of life that grace provides. So, how do we embrace this grace and allow it to lead us to a new life with Jesus?
The main point of our recent sermon series on Romans is clear: Grace is not just a ticket to heaven; it’s the power to live a new life here and now. Romans 6:4 tells us that just as Christ was raised from the dead, we too can walk in newness of life. This new life is not about perfection but about transformation. It’s about putting to death our old ways and embracing the freedom that comes from living under God’s grace. But how do we do this practically?
First, we need to consider the work of grace done by Jesus. This means taking a moment to reflect on what Jesus accomplished on the cross and what it means for us today. It’s about recognizing that His death and resurrection offer us the power to overcome sin and live a life that reflects His love and righteousness. Before you act on an impulse that leads you away from God, pause and consider where that path leads. This simple act of reflection can be a powerful deterrent against sin.
Next, we must choose to live like Jesus. This isn’t about trying to be perfect but about allowing God’s grace to shape our actions and attitudes. It’s about asking God to fill us with His Spirit so that we can produce the fruits of love, joy, peace, and patience in our lives. This choice is a daily, moment-by-moment decision to align our lives with His will, trusting that He will provide the strength we need.
Finally, we need to cast off the stink of sin. Just like a dog that’s been sprayed by a skunk, we need to be relentless in seeking God’s grace to cleanse us from the lingering effects of sin. This means continually going back to God, asking for His forgiveness and strength to overcome the areas where we struggle. Remember, sin no longer has dominion over us because we are under grace, not the law.
As we conclude, consider this: Jesus wants your heart. He doesn’t expect you to be perfect, but He does invite you to walk in the newness of life that His grace provides. What will you do this week to embrace this grace and allow it to transform your life? Will you take a moment to consider the work of grace, choose to live like Jesus, and cast off the stink of sin? Without taking these steps, you might miss out on the abundant life Jesus offers.
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of grace that You offer us through Jesus. Help us to embrace this grace and allow it to transform our lives. Give us the strength to consider Your work, choose to live like Jesus, and cast off the sin that entangles us. May we walk in the newness of life and reflect Your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
