Devotions: The Righteousness of God

Day 1: The Rigor of Law

Reading: Romans 3:19-20

Devotional: The law of God serves to highlight our inability to live righteously and the depth of our sin. As we reflect on these verses, consider the rigor of God's law and our shortcomings in fulfilling it. The law was not given as a means of salvation but to illuminate our need for a Savior.

Reflection Question: How does understanding the rigor of God's law shape your perspective on God's grace and mercy?

Day 2: Righteousness from God

Reading: Romans 3:21-22

Devotional: Today's verses shed light on the righteousness that comes from God, distinct from our self-righteousness. This righteousness, gifted to us through faith in Jesus Christ, remedies our sinful state. The righteousness of God not only saves us but places us in a better state than if sin had never entered the world.

Reflection Question: How does knowing that righteousness comes from God, not your own works, impact your faith journey?

Day 3: Propitiation Through Christ

Reading: Romans 3:23-25

Devotional: These verses illustrate the profound meaning of propitiation – Christ's act of turning aside God's wrath on our behalf. This act of divine mercy displays God's righteousness while offering salvation to sinners. As we meditate on these verses, let's express gratitude for Christ's propitiation, which makes us righteous before God.

Reflection Question: How does the concept of Christ’s propitiation shape your understanding of God's love and justice?

Day 4: Justified by Faith

Reading: Romans 3:26-28

Devotional: Today, we delve into the idea of justification by faith, a core tenet of the Reformation. We are declared righteous, not by our works, but by faith in Christ's redemptive work. This transformative truth should guide our response to God's grace, moving us to live in humility and gratitude.

Reflection Question: In what ways does the doctrine of justification by faith influence your daily walk with Christ?

Day 5: Proclaiming the Gospel Power

Reading: Romans 1:16

Devotional: As we wrap up our reading plan, we reflect on the power of the Gospel. Paul was not ashamed of the Gospel because it is the power of God for salvation. This sermon has highlighted the key doctrines of the Reformation, underlining our need for God's righteousness and the Gospel's power. As believers, we are called to faithfully proclaim this message to the world.

Reflection Question: How can you embody Paul's unashamed proclamation of the Gospel in your life?