2014 December 30 - Morning Manna

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us (Romans 5:1-5).

Today’s Morsel: If someone were to ask you to define “justified,” what would you tell them?  The best way to look at justified is: “just (as)—if—I’d.”  Just as if I’d never done anything wrong.  Just as if I’d never made a mistake. Just as if I’d have never lied, cheated, or stolen. Paul said, “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God” (I Corinthians 6:9-11).  You see, once you were baptized in Jesus’ name, it’s just as if you’d never done any of those things Paul mentioned.  The blood of Jesus is like an eraser; it removes our sins.  If you confess your sins, Jesus will wipe them away.  You don’t have to be ashamed of the sins and wrongs you’ve done in the past if you have been born again.  You’ve been washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of Jesus Christ. Be of good cheer.

Sing: The Joy of the Lord is my strength; The Joy of the Lord is my strength; The Joy of the Lord is my strength; the Joy of the Lord is my strength.

Thought for Today:  Baptism in Jesus name still works.