Daily Power #186

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Rom. 8:1)

Years ago, I began saving my money and buying small houses to fix up and rent out. While I was always looking for a bargain fixer-upper, I could tell that some of these places were only one step away from being condemned by the city and torn down. You know the kind of places I’m talking about. The ones that look like haunted houses, with boarded-up windows and sinking foundations, places you wouldn’t want to be inside during the daytime let alone at night.

These condemned houses usually sat vacant, decaying and falling into further disrepair, waiting until they could be destroyed or demolished. These sites are sad remnants of their former glory, when they were new, strong, and beautiful. When shopping for properties, I knew that no matter how hard I worked, these homes were beyond repair.

Sometimes we treat ourselves like an old house that has been condemned instead of like a new home that God has renovated and restored. Through our faith in Christ, God forgives us, loves us, and brings us new life. What’s old has passed away; he is doing a new thing in us. Often we don’t live this way, though. Instead we create an enormous challenge by continuing to condemn ourselves even after God has forgiven us.

There’s no way your standard can be higher than God’s perfect holiness. It’s time you realize what God is building in you, rather than what you continue to try to tear down. Through the power of Jesus Christ, you have been given the ultimate foundation for true transformation.

Power Lift

Sometimes I feel so ashamed and focused on my sins, Lord. Thank you for your grace and mercy, the cornerstones of my faith in you.