You Were Circling the Drain
OPENING PRAYER:
Gracious God, as we dive deeper into Your Word today, help us to recognize the times we were circling the drain and the ways You have rescued us. May Your Spirit guide us into all truth. Amen.
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."
Romans 3:23-24 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Paul's letter to the Romans emphasizes the universal nature of sin and the grace that justifies us through Jesus Christ. The phrase "circling the drain" vividly describes a state of rapid decline and impending failure. Paul reminds us in Romans that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory. This universal truth applies to every person, highlighting our collective brokenness and need for salvation.
Before encountering Christ, we were all in a state of spiritual decline, enslaved by sin and unable to save ourselves. This condition is not just about individual actions but about a deeper, inherent brokenness that affects every aspect of our lives. We were deceived, disobedient, and enslaved by various passions and pleasures, leading to a life marked by malice, envy, and hatred.
However, Paul also emphasizes that we are justified freely by God's grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. This redemption is not something we can earn or achieve on our own; it is a gift from God. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross paid the penalty for our sins and offers us a way out of our state of decline.
Recognizing that we were circling the drain helps us appreciate the depth of God's grace and the magnitude of His rescue. It humbles us and reminds us of our dependence on Him. It also motivates us to live in a way that reflects our gratitude for His salvation. Has there been a time in your life when you felt like you were circling the drain? How did God intervene and rescue you? Consider writing down your reflections and thank God for His grace and redemption.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will let God’s Word remind me of who I am.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for rescuing us from our state of decline and offering us redemption through Jesus Christ. Help us to remember Your grace and live in a way that reflects our gratitude. Guide us as we share our stories of Your rescue with others. Amen.