Posted by: Shirley Smith on Tue, Jun 23, 2020
Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 (ESV)
A friend, facing a thicket of seemingly random yet serious problems with her family, asked me, "Is God punishing me? What else could account for this persistent mess?"
The fact is, life this side of heaven is broken. Sometimes things go wrong for no reason, apart from the fall that marred paradise. Other times, we suffer the consequences of, not punishment for, our actions. It's not Jesus wagging His finger in dismay. He lovingly allows us our free will, the freedom to choose our actions.
My friend had made it a practice to critique various family members' life choices, unsolicited, then discussed her views with others. Eventually word got around and the pressure cooker popped. Consequences. Brought before Jesus, our consequences can be priceless growth opportunities that mature us and point us back to the infallibility of Scripture. Once we repent and make amends to those harmed, Jesus will pour out His grace. He can use what seems like a mistake to greatly bless us and others (Romans 8:28).
I'm in the midst of the predictable and hard consequences of what now seems like a flawed and carnal decision. I don't know the ultimate outcome, but Jesus has already used it to dramatically shape, guide, and yes, bless me in unexpected ways. Jesus' intent is always love. If I look for love in consequences, I'll see Jesus. ISABELLA YOSUICO
FAITH STEP: If you're feeling punished or condemned, meditate on Romans 8:1.
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