Scripture: Colossians 1:21-23 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven…
Devotional: I grew up under the shadow of shame. Somehow, I felt unworthy just to take up space. Although I’m not certain how or when that came to be in my life, I clearly remember the moment I heard the Good News that God loves me, has a plan for my life, and that Jesus died to pay the penalty for my sin. I could now live apart from the cloud of shame. My mantra was transformed from “shame on you” to “shame off you.”
Today’s passage speaks to that truth. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross of Calvary frees everyone who believes in Him from accusation and condemnation. Romans 8:1 reminds us: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…”
If you struggle with feeling less than, condemned, or shame-filled, this is not the life that God has called you to live. He has provided the life of His beloved Son to free you from all that. Have you embraced this gift of grace?
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1). The forgiveness of God is far-reaching and without limitation to anyone who believes. Atheists, adulterers, murderers, liars, the hot-tempered, and holier-than-thou can all receive the forgiveness of their heavenly Father. The good, the bad, and the ugly are all candidates for God’s grace.
That’s what the resurrection has done for each of us.
Reflect:
- Do you struggle with any underlying feelings of unworthiness and shame? Be reminded today of the power of the Gospel to free you from all that.