Scripture:
Romans 5:16-18 – Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin which leads to death, or obedience , which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness.
Observation:
Paul here is providing explanation to answer the question why it is not okay to sin because we are under grace not the law. We are united to Christ and have died with him to sin and are resurrected in a new life. Our lives will be marked as slaves to what we are obedient so we submit to serve God. God’s saving grace is a gift that changes our hearts.
Application:
I need to thank God for the Gospel daily and live as someone who has been set free from sin that held me in bondage. My response to the Gospel, should be one of love, praise and caring for others. I am a slave to what I am obedient – whatever has my time, focus and resources. I best present myself to God, live in obedience to him and consider myself as a slave for Christ and his eternal Kingdom. If I am not serving God, then I am serving (slave) self, work or sin all of which lead to death.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and free gift of eternal life through Jesus. Let me live a changed life of obedience to give the glory to you and point others to you.