Daily Reading: 7-26-16
Romans 9:30-10:4 Common English Bible (CEB)
Jews and non-Jews can experience the truth of the gospel; God desires to make all people His people. Life in the Spirit—faith in Christ—helps us to understand God’s tremendous love for us all. For many, the gospel is just too simple and too amazing, so we trip over the Rock of Ages trying to make it difficult! We cannot earn God’s favor or forgiveness; it’s a gift of Grace. We must trust the righteousness of God found in Christ that has been extended to humanity. Our hands come to God empty. Remember, God will hold us accountable to remain obedient in Christ. Christ is the complete revelation of God.
Romans 9:30-10:4 Israel and God’s righteousness
30 So what are we going to say? Gentiles who weren’t striving for righteousness achieved righteousness, the righteousness that comes from faith. 31 But though Israel was striving for a Law of righteousness, they didn’t arrive. 32 Why? It’s because they didn’t go for it by faith but they went for it as if it could be reached by doing something. They have tripped over a stumbling block. 33 As it is written:
Look! I’m putting a stumbling block in Zion,
which is a rock that offends people.
And the one who has faith in him will not be put to shame.
10 Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire is for Israel’s salvation. That’s my prayer to God for them. 2 I can vouch for them: they are enthusiastic about God. However, it isn’t informed by knowledge. 3 They don’t submit to God’s righteousness because they don’t understand his righteousness, and they try to establish their own righteousness. 4 Christ is the goal of the Law, which leads to righteousness for all who have faith in God.
Prayer: Father, I have no desire to live by my human effort; my hands are empty to receive your gift. Thank you for the gospel of Grace and the Spirit who helps me in my spiritual journey back home to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.