REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, written by Pastor Sam Lee who leads Catalyst Agape Church in Northern New Jersey, was first posted on October 18, 2013. He is a graduate of University of Wisconsin (BA) and Biblical Theological Seminary (M.Div.).
Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend
“Standing Up Against a Spiritually Bully”
Romans 8:1
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
There is a bully in the spiritual realm that works hard to bring condemnation. He is very good at using intimidation, shame, guilt, fear, or whatever else is at his disposal to beat us down. This bully knows that once we allow condemnation to come into our heart, he can influence and control our life. Therefore, being aware of his strategy, let’s make up our mind not to allow this to happen. Especially during times of weakness, failures, and spiritual attacks, don’t let this spiritual bully have his way.
But I need to remind you that the battle against condemnation is a spiritual battle, and not fought through conventional means. That is, we cannot fight this battle with human weapons. We may think we can overcome condemnation through good works, but it is not good enough.
Good works is our calling, but it does not save us from our sin. If it cannot save us from sin, it cannot free us from condemnation. Sin has brought physical, spiritual, and eternal death, bringing into the world every disease and sickness. From the beginning of human history, sin has broken relationships. It has perverted everything that is good, and has opened the door to every demonic activity. Ultimately, sin has separated us from God, bringing condemnation to every human being on earth. And the truth is, no amount of human good works combined can make even a dent to bring freedom from condemnation.
Freedom doesn’t come through regulations but through a relationship. The focus cannot be on what we can do or what we have done. The focus is on what Christ has done for us; Jesus was condemned so that we would be free from all condemnation: Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Prayer: In Jesus’ name, I reject condemnation and embrace the freedom in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Bible Reading for Today: 1 Corinthians 10-11