OCT 3

Romans 6:20-21
Memorise Ephesians 2:2-3
“…were by nature the children of wrath…”

Think back on what you were like before you were saved. How did you behave? What were your motivations? What did you spend your time on? What sort of friends did you enjoy spending time with? What things filled your thoughts? Do not be surprised if you find the answers to these questions embarrassing to share with another person.

In today’s reading, Paul states in no uncertain terms that all of us used to be the “servants of sin” (v. 20). This literally means that we were slaves to sin, totally devoted to sinful things. We were in a state of total depravity, utterly incapable of any good or righteousness. Even when we seemed to be doing good deeds, we were still motivated by sinful desires and thoughts. We were under the complete control of sin. Verse 21 goes on to tell us that the things that we used to do should now bring us much shame. These were things that were completely unfruitful, for nothing we ever did was for God. We did things only to please ourselves and satisfy our selfish, sinful desires. Such a way of life would only lead us to one end: death. What a terrifying thought indeed, and what a terrible state to be in!

And yet, what a blessed thought it is, to know that we are no longer in such a state. This is possible only because of the precious salvation that Christ has worked for us. Truly how great and wonderful a salvation! Dear teen, may you therefore never forget the depths of sin from which Christ has rescued you, and may you never be tempted to return to such a state of sinfulness!

Thought: Through Christ, I no longer serve sin!
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for freeing me from the bondage of sin.