Romans 3 - Two-Fold Blessing

Romans 3.

“²³for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. I have used this verse many times in my texts and sermons, and it still speaks to me today. All (not some, not a few, not most, but ALL) have sinned. This is a pertinent reminder to us when we are quick to judge and condemn (as discussed in yesterday’s post). Before we jump to criticize, we should check ourselves, for we are not without sin either and that’s how Paul used it in context. He stated that we are all sinners, Jews and Gentiles alike, that one person is not above the other. We have all sinned and deserve death, no law or good deeds can absolve us from that, only grace from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and our faith in Him can save us. So keep that in mind as a “self-check” before we go off to judge or gossip about others, but also keep it in mind as encouragement for when we fail. Everyone has sinned, we all have failed God at some point, but that doesn’t have to be the end. Thanks to Jesus, we have the opportunity to ask for forgiveness then get back on track, closer than ever to God and become stronger for our failures and shortcomings. So this verse can be a two-fold blessing (and many more really), a “self-check” for pride and ego, and an uplifting encouragement of hope for those fallen. Thank you Lord for being so good all the time. Amen.