Romans 8:1

Romans 8:1 (NIV) - "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus..." Talk about a declaration that is pure 'good news' - this is it! No condemnation in Christ! I have met so many people that have spent much of their lives feeling worthless, guilty, ashamed, and condemned. They rate their 'performance' and feel they will never measure up. They are on a constant treadmill, trying to earn, achieve, and gain God's approval and love. You don't have to do that! You are forgiven and loved! Jimmy Needham talks about this in his beautiful song "Forgiven and Loved." He says he too struggled with the tendency to try to feel better about himself by trying, striving and working harder with the intent of overcoming feelings of guilt, shame and condemnation. I share with you these lyrics for your consideration:

Tell me I’m forgiven and loved
‘Cause I hear it from the street corner priests
On how God is love and how man can be clean
But my joy has been on holiday
And my peace has almost passed away
Tell me I’m forgiven and free

O I tried and tried to rectify my hopeless situation
But I bought the lie I still have work to do
Now I’m working nine to five like I can earn my own salvation
But there is no condemnation in You

O whisper to me now that it’s for real
‘Cause in the silence of these walls righteousness lost its appeal
Dirty deeds have done me in
O but that can’t stop the faithful friend
Giving mercy once again as You heal
Here it is I’m feeling it

O He died, He died to rectify my hopeless situation
And His blood commands my guilt to leave
Now on Calvary I stand Empty pockets, open hands
O there is no condemnation for me

Child, you’re forgiven and loved
Child, you’re forgiven and loved
Child, you’re forgiven And child, you are loved
Child, you’re forgiven and loved.

NO CONDEMNATION!