jay's Corner

Romans 6:12-14; Hebrews 5:14

As I write this, last Sunday was Resurrection Day- Easter- the

day we especially celebrate Jesus’ coming out of the tomb

alive, risen forever as our Lord and “first fruits of those who are asleep.”

The message that day was about the necessity of death pre- ceding resurrection. Christ died and was raised; so we are unit- ed with Him in death, burial, and resurrection as we are im- mersed into Christ (Romans 6:3-7).

The death we experience is not physical. It is a death to sin so that we may be free to serve a new master- God (Romans 6:12- 14). Yet there is an ongoing effort to be made as we grow in learning to please God and deny sin a place in our lives. It is at this point every conscientious believer struggles with sin. Paul did (Romans 7:14-25), pointing out that only through Christ do we ultimately find victory (Romans 8:1-17).

Where do you stand in your personal struggle? Let me encourage you with these thoughts…

1. Never forget that Jesus paid the price for your sin. That means He fought the battle, defeated the Devil, and gives us the opportunity to choose whom we will serve (Romans 6:16). Slaves to sin or slaves to God- make your choice!

2. We grow through learning the Word and learning how to apply it in life (Romans 6:17). Scripture is there for our encouragement (Romans 15:4) and our equipping to serve Christ (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). Read, study, ask questions, expect to see improvement in your spiritual walk as the Word does its work within you (Hebrews 5:14)!

3. Rejoice- an attitude of joy, especially in the tough times, will lift your spirit. Psalm 63:1-7 is a portion of David’s exclamation of joy while in the wilderness. Let it speak to you!

As we die to self, the door opens to please God. As we put His desires in first place it makes a big difference in our view of our own circumstances. Our new Master has a place and purpose for us, we can depend on that!