TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
Read: Romans 3:21-26
Listen: Romans 3
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Darkness covers the land at noon. Whether at home, working in the field, shopping in the market, or worshipping in the temple, everyone likely stopped to wonder what was happening. It’s a moment they will surely remember for years to come. This happens as Jesus hangs on the cross—darkness when there should be light. Night overtakes the day (Matthew 27:45). It is ominous and means something significant. For the Jewish people, darkness symbolizes judgment (Amos 8:9). The Bible’s storyline begins with God creating the world and calling it good. But three chapters in, humans rebel against God, deciding they are better off without him. The consequences of this rebellion are disastrous.
Everything wrong with our world and us results from this first rebellion and our continued rebellion against God. The Bible is very clear that humans, collectively and individually, are guilty before God (Romans 3:23). This can be a tough truth to accept. We don’t like to admit we are wrong. However, admitting our guilt is critical in accepting the forgiveness offered through the cross. If we aren’t guilty of sin, there’s no need for the cross.
TODAY: Spend some time thinking about your thoughts, words and actions that don’t align with God’s Word and how he created you to live. Confess your sins to God. Ask him for forgiveness and thank him for the forgiveness Jesus paid for on the cross. If there’s a particular sin you find yourself repeating, find a trusted friend or mentor to pray for you and hold you accountable in that area.
JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
Read Hosea 8-9. Highlight anything that points to Jesus.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
