A lot has filled this day, Father. I would ask that You keep my eyes open and my mind attentive as we come together. May Your word be heard. Amen.
Romans 3:9-20 (<<click here to read the passage)
I’m sure the habit that I continue to practice, I picked up somewhere in my childhood. When I have done something or said something wrong – not as in making mistakes – but when I have intentionally done or said something of which I am guilty, my mind rolls over and over again, all the reasons that I should not be pronounced guilty if I am found out.
My mind goes through all kinds of scenarios of excuses and rationalizations. It’s an odd habit, I guess, but it seems like I do it every time. I even go through the exercise if I am not guilty if I just thought I might be.
But even in my own mind, I quickly conclude that those arguments would fall apart and that I would have nothing to stand upon except the bare-naked truth regarding what I had done.
Humanity is replete with excuses and rationalizations. We are also very good at attempting to deflect our guilt to someone – almost anyone – else.
We may make excuses before each other, but there will come a day when we all will have nothing to stand upon except the bare-naked truth regarding what we have done. Like it or not, that is the way it will be when we stand before God at the end of all time.
In verses 10-18 of today’s passage, Paul groups together portions of several Psalms with the addition of Isaiah 59:7-8, to clearly communicate where we stand in the light of God’s holiness. It strikes me silent. I have no excuse. Thoughtfully read these verses through. As the Amplified Bible begins verse 10, “As it is written and forever remains written…” (emphasis mine)

“No one is righteous—
….not even one.
No one is truly wise;
….no one is seeking God.
All have turned away;
….all have become useless.
No one does good,
….not a single one.”
“Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave.
….Their tongues are filled with lies.”
“Snake venom drips from their lips.”
….“Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”
“They rush to commit murder.
….Destruction and misery always follow them.
They don’t know where to find peace.”
….“They have no fear of God at all.” Romans 3:10-18 NLT

Lord Jesus, every single one of us is guilty. May we readily admit our guilt and humbly stand before You, our only source of forgiveness and salvation. Amen.

Oct 26th, 2022, Wed, 7:53 pm