Believe in Him who justifies the ungodly.

Romans 4:5 But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness, This is a stunning! Most people think God only accepts people who are good, and in their own view of themselves, they think they qualify. They believe that God only justifies good, godly people. That’s a corrupted view of God—an earthly, self-centered perspective. These people work so they can be rewarded and receive glory from God. 180 degrees from that perspective is God’s love. Because He is love, He justifies the ungodly. He gives—let me say it again—He gives ungodly people His own righteousness merely as a favor. The way they know that God has justified them is that they believe that God is love and justifies the ungodly, not on the basis of anything they have done, but 100% on the basis of His pleasure and love—for His glory. Let this sink in! “Believe in Him who justifies the ungodly.” Is that your hope? Is that your confidence when you come to die? Is that what motivates you to live and love today? I hope so. This great gospel truth is the heartbeat of the Christian life. Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com