Read: Romans 1:1-17
Think: Today is Day 40 of 100 Days of Faith in Action. On this day, we transition from reading about the amazing acts of the Holy Spirit, particularly through Paul’s missionary journeys, to a serious letter Paul has written to the church in Rome. Interestingly, Paul had not founded the church in Rome, neither did he have personal contact with this church…until writing this letter. Because of these factors, the book of Romans is considered by Bible scholars as Paul’s theological treatise or position, in which he is “distilling the very essence of his faith and beliefs.” From the very beginning, in Romans 1, Paul describes himself as a slave of the Lord Jesus Christ who has been “set apart” for the gospel. And though it has been an incredibly tumultuous 22 years since Paul first began to preach the gospel, it remains his greatest passion! He writes (Romans 1:16), “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
Act: As you read the entire book of Romans over the next few weeks, read slowly! Underline key verses and make notes in your journal or even in the margins of your Bible. Allow Paul’s passion to deepen your own faith. Each day, highlight one verse from each daily reading and at the end of the book of Romans, you’ll have 21+ verses that you have found convicting, inspiring, compelling and empowering. Begin today. Choose one verse from Romans 1:1-17 that is the most impactful to you.
Pray: Dear Lord, I want to learn more abut You through the book of Romans. Allow me to grow in my knowledge of the Gospel and be refreshed in my faith. Most importantly, help me become more bold and articulate in sharing this great Good News with others. Open my heart and mind to learn more about You, Jesus. I love You. Amen.
Be full of faith today!
