Today we read Romans 4. Please also go back to the beginning of the Bible and read Genesis 15. Abraham trusted that God was able to do what He promised. Trials and challenges may tempt us to doubt God’s promises. As He did with Abraham, God will strengthen our faith, assure us of His promises, help us to trust, and fulfill all He said He would do. • Lord, I believe. Assure me when I doubt, and strengthen my faith. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 9738-9739). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9738). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Romans 3, one of the most important chapters in the Bible. While we are tempted to think that obedience to the Law can save, Paul shows the Law’s diagnosis: we are sinners incapable of saving ourselves (verse 20). Only when we see this are we prepared for the Good News of what Christ has done for us. • Lord, I know that I am a sinner. Forgive me. Help me see Jesus and trust in Him alone. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9732). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Romans 2. Paul warns against being praised by people but not by God. Pride desires recognition and praise from the world, but this may come in ways that are inconsistent with God’s will. Our priorities are misplaced when we seek the world’s acclaim. We are blessed when we place God first, knowing He loves and forgives us. He approves of us because of Jesus. That’s all the praise we will ever need. • Heavenly Father, in faith I do not seek the praise of the world, but I rejoice in Your gifts. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9730). (Function). Kindle Edition.

We now start reading Romans, a very deep and theologically rich book of the Bible. *** We love to condemn the sins of others. We might not have committed some of the acts Paul condemns here, but we all have sinned. We have exchanged God’s truth for human foolishness. Seeing sin, we ought not respond defensively but in confession. We know God’s response to sin: He sent His Son to die for sinners. • Lord have mercy on me, a sinner. Grant me sincere confession and compassion for other sinners. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9726). (Function). Kindle Edition.