Open-Hearted Welcome (Romans15: especially vs 2 & 5-6 ESV)

 

"Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up ... May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 15:2, 5-6 ESV).

Observe the reason for pleasing one's neighbor.  It was for his good.  That "good" specifically, was to build him up.  It was not to be manipulated or favored for other special treatment.

So like a prayer, God was asked to grant the Roman believers endurance, and encouragement.  Why?  So that they could live in harmony, be in accord with Christ Jesus and have one voice to glorify God.

This was not to please their own self and their own preferences.  When you read through the whole letter to the Romans you'll see all the conflicts and issues that had arisen because they wanted to impose their own Jewish-ness or Gentile-ness.  These elements had been strongly imbedded into their beings - minds and hearts.

But now they needed to learn the new way in Christ.  It would take endurance because these issues would surface again and again and needed God's endurance to overcome.

They also needed God's encouragement to motivate them towards God's most excellent way.  So when they glorified God it would not be tainted by dissension but by one voice, in togetherness, in one accord and harmony.  They needed to do this attuning of their hearts and minds so that they could willingly and open-heartedly welcome one another as Christ had welcomed each of them (see vs7).  And this hope they had in Christ could then fill them with all joy and peace in believing, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

And so, Paul encouraged them with confidence, even though he had used some strong language as he pointed out various "reminders," as he called them, to instruct them in The Christian Way (see vs 14-15 ESV).

God and Father, to You we lift up our hearts and minds in one accord to glorify You.  It's only in You we have genuine endurance and encouragement to be one in Christ and to keep the unity of the Holy Spirit.  We can only thank You for all of this and forgiving us hope that we can indeed live in harmony with other believers of diverse backgrounds.  Thank You so much for the book of Romans that reveals these issues to us.  In Jesus' name we give You our thanks and praise.  Amen.

                                                  ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 15: especially vs 2, 5 & 6 ESV.

Sing, Great Is Thy Faithfulness, along with Marantha Singers.

Food and Drink (Romans 14 ESV)

 "You are what you eat," is a slogan and book title by a nutritionist named Victor Lindlahr.  He said that our health is linked to the food we eat.  The 'for better or for worse' scenario comes to the fore.

Yes, I know that Paul was not talking about diet and health in Romans 14 but it is true that our diet can reflect our cultural and/or religious backgrounds.  The adherents to these backgrounds will indeed tend to have mirrored health, depending on the foods they eat.

But still, this was not Paul's point I believe.  When the food a person eats stems from religious and even cultural beliefs, and each respective person believes he or she is RIGHT!  that's where clashes could likely have broken out as each try to gain dominance.

Once again we are reminded of the Roman congregation of believers' backgrounds.  The Jews had food restrictions a mile long derived from the Law of Moses God had given to the Israelites and that was passed down through the ages - for more than one millenia!  

Cogitate on that a while.  How ingrained that'd be!  How right these laws would be as fixed in the minds of these religious devotees!  Enter the Gentiles who'd even eat pork and other foods sold in markets, food that had often been offered to idols first.  You get the picture!

Paul articulately addresses this issue in one magnificent, professional, fluid flourish of his mind and pen.  He wrote,

"I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean" (Romans 14:14 ESV).

And he even says,

"Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him" (Romans 14:3 ESV).

That evens things up nicely.  Paul doesn't leave it at that though because if this is just a mechanical do or don't  on your own strength case, it would likely fail miserably.

"None of us lives to himself" (Romans 14:7).

You won't be able to do it alone.  You need the Lord and the fellowship of the believers in support.  And if a believer of whatever background grieves another brother or sister by what they eat in front of them, they are

"no longer walking in love" (vs. 15).

That puts it bluntly and Paul adds warning,

"Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God" (vs 20).

Check it out.  Ask yourself,  "Am I ME-centered, or CHRIST-centered?!" 

I know a brother who eats with others - co-workers - but because they abstain from certain foods and he wants to eat with them to try to keep harmonious relationship as best he can for greater efficiency and healthy work environment, he'll join them in the type of food choice they make, even though it's not his favorite.  This is sacrifice to himself for the good of all.  He keeps his faith between himself and God, and eats what they eat.

What's more, when believers in Jesus Christ meet with other believers we can do ...

"... what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding" (v. 19).

I realize this is not an easy road to travel, especially when certain things have been ingrained in us since childhood as if it's part of our DNA, but then again when we abstain or partake, in love and humility, the love of God by-the-way, it all helps to maintain unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

In so doing, we "do not destroy the work of God" for the sake of food or for the sake of whatever the quarrel is about.  Let not pride and "my right way" stumble another nor divide a congregation of believers.  Food and drink are not as important as peace and unity of Sprit among the people of God.

May our Lord bless the sacrifices we make in these types of circumstances.  God bless us all as we walk humbly with Him.

So be it, Lord.  Amen.

                                                      ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 14 ESV.

Sing, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, along with Alan Parks.

Walk Properly in Daylight (Romans 13 ESV)

 I'm always curious and somewhat astonished when God's Word lumps certain immoral actions together, some of which may not be considered as bad as others.  Yet, here is a Bible verse that sees them all on par.

"Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkennes, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy" (Romans 13:13 ESV).

In my mind quarreling and jealousy are not near as bad as the others included on that list.  Perhaps, what they could lead to though, if left unchecked, is where the evil lies.

It's kind of like the Pharisee and the Tax Collector's attitudes and stances as they prayed and even why they'd come to pray in the first place.

One came to exalt himself, telling God how good he was - how morally upright he was.  In contrast, the tax collector humbly admitted his sinfulness, begging God for mercy.  "I'm a sinner," he outrightly confessed (see Luke 18:9-14).

Self-righteousness does not justify us.  So when we think one type of sin is worse than another, or that because we've lived a good-living life and haven't hurt anyone, we are justified in God's sight, we are blind to truth.

As Paul encouraged the Roman congregation of Jewish and Gentile believers,

"Cast off the works of darkness" (Roman 13:12 ESV).

Darkness that we think is light.  Let's understand how God sees us and our acitons.  Instead let's, 

" ... put on the armor of light ..." and "walk properly as in the daytime"                (Romans 13:12 & 13).

Allow the light of God and His Word to illuminate even to our most inner and intimate thoughts and intents of heart.

Paul adds something of major import ...

"But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires" (Romans 13:14 ESV).

Don't put temptation in temptation's way to test your own temptation thresholds.  We need to search our hearts and minds in the 'daylight' of God's Word and Holy Spirit conviction, thus avoiding all the immorality, even the bits we think aren't that bad.

                                                    ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 13 ESV.

Sing, When We Walk With the Lord (Trust and Obey), along with the Isle of man Methodist Church choir.

Book Review - Disposable Wives - By Lynda Drews - Publication Date: 12 May 2026

 

Disposable Wives is of interest but not exactly a riveting read.  In fits and starts it did briefly grab my attention but then lagged where details bogged the story down.  However, I did keep in mind that this book is based on true life events.  Some accuracy in those details needed telling, I believe.

A  reader will encounter the story mainly through Pauline's and Xavier's eyes.  Pauline was a sister to Elvira who was one of Jean Philippe Sosquet's unfortunate, disposable wives.  Xavier was many things but functioned largely as a translater in this story.

One is taken through the runup to the alleged crimes, through the trials and what came afterwards.  How could one truly like a book though that's about such a dispicable man.  Yet,  I feel some small spark of justice has been done by mention of the three respective wives.  They have not been completely lost to buried history.

                                             ~  Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger  ~

                                                            May 2026

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Heart Burn (Romans 12 ESV)

 

Once the people of God begin to humbly walk in a Christian way - remembering that no matter the walk of life and cultural and/or religious background they are from - they will be more unified, walking in the Spirit and in the unity of the Spirit God gave them.  There will be a bond of peace.  They will be more able to,

"... present [their] bodies as a lving sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God"               (Romans 12:1 ESV).

This will be their "spiritual worship," their way of life.

There will be transformation and renewal of mind, discernment of God's will.  All very important as is not thinking too highly of themselves (vs 2 & 3).  There will be love and genuine affection for each other and together, their service for the Lord will be

 "fervent in spirit" (v. 11).

There will be rejoicing, patience, constant prayer and so much more.  You will see it when you read Romans 12.  

Harmony.  This is not just a work the Lord loves, rather the action, and state of being in harmony He wants.  Harmony.  Unity.  Paul pushes these points and explains how to achieve it.  Jesus and Gentiles alike being addressed here.  Please, please, please, I hear in Paul's words ...

"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all" (vs 18).

Ths is the pro-active actions the assembly of believers in Rome could work on.  This is part and parcel of the "Christian Way".  It would take guts, they'd have to be living sacrifices.  They'd have to sacrifice, daily, all their own thoughts, ideas and opinions that stemmed from their upbringing whether religious and/or cultural.  Instead they'd need to seek out the better, more excellent way in Christ.

New thinking according to their "new creation in Christ" being.  And if they wanted to get revenge - leave it to God because

 "vengeance belonged to Him" (see v 19).

Furthermore, if they really and truly were concerned for their enemy, they'd be radical.  What?  Feed them?  Give them drink when and where needed?  They'd find out what those enemies needed and supply it.  That will get to the enemy and, 

"heap burning coals on his head" (v 20).

I'd think even on your own.  Perhaps not on your head but on your heart - you'd have heart burn.  Because, to be able to do genuine good to anyone you consider an enemy, the heart will need certain emotions burned away.  Emotions of anger, rebellion, revenge, and the like.  Showing goodness and kindness will cost and therefore, a sacrifice of our natural inclinations.  

No doubt we've all felt these.  Our Lord will be well-pleased when we can be more like Him in these matters.  May God get the glory from our lives that reflect Him.  This is acceptable to Him.

                                                  ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 12 ESV.

Sing, There is One Gospel, along with City Alight.

Mother's Day 2026 - While You Can

 Another year, another Mother's Day.  Lots of endearing words and sentiments flood the lines, read and said.  But for some people there are now only fond memories.

We love to remember the nurturing and wise actions of our Moms.  Granted some mother's haven't made the mark but I'd like to honor those who have.

Mothers teach and comfort, give unconditional love, are our top fan in our personal fan club and have enduring influence, even now, after she [they] has /have passed.

And so we lift our glasses in honor of her and good, noble mothers everywhere - the globe over.

Thanks to our Lord who gave us diligent, wise moms on whom we could rely.  Best of all to Mothers who feared the Lord and taught their children to love Jesus who first loved them.

We celebrate and give our Mothers honor and praise and thanks for all they've done for us from the womb to the tomb.

"Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate" (Proverbs 31:31 NIV).

Indeed, I deeply thank my own Mom, especially for the covering of prayers she prayed over and for me for all the decades of her life.

Mother's everywhere, let's encourage each other whatever stage of parenting we are at.  It's not an easy job but with God's help, we can do it.  Sit down and have a cuppa with yours while you still can.

                          HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY 2026!

                                                      ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Proverbs 31:31.

Sing, My Beautiful Mommy, Living Water Worship Kids.

The Christian Way (Romans 11: expecially 1-2 and 13 ESV)

 

What a mastermind the apostle Paul must have been!  I would dearly love to know what his IQ must have been.  I suppose there were no such data collecting standards during his time but he must have been quite a genius.

Look at his writings and sleuth for his background bio to get some clue of it.   He often used his trump cards to great effect too.  It can be especially noted in the book of Acts in how he outmanuevers getting a whipping by stating his Roman citizenship or breaks up dissession against him and the like.

You can see how he levels the ground in Romans chapter 11 in a most elegant and eloquent way.  If you recall, this book of Romans was written to Christians on Rome.  The major cultural background had been Gentile believers until the returned-to-Rome Jews who'd become Christians had joined the congregation.

Of course there'd be cultural clashes!!

Even though the common denominator was that both cultures now had a new culture, that of being Christian, the influence of their Gentile-ness and their Jewish-ness was strong and vying for prominence.  This brought conflict.

Paul's letter sought to bring peace, awareness and a unity of Spirit in the bond of that peace.  Therefore, he starts this section of letter with stating,

"I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham ... God has not rejected his        people ..." (Romans 11:1 & 2 ESV).

For the Jews, this message likely brought assurance.  Paul could tie it to them directly, so they'd listen.  For the Gentiles, though, it may have ruffled feathers.

So Paul reveals another trump card down in verse 31.

"Now I am speaking to you Gentiles.  Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry ..."

Ah-ha!  He snags their attention too, and goes on to give word pictures of how neigher group should become arrogant nor force cultrueal beliefs upon the other.

I love what he tells them in no uncertain terms,

" ... do not be arrogant toward the branches.  If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root supports you ...." (vs 18).

They all had been

 "chosen by grace" (vs. 5), 

therefore it was 

"no longer on the basis of works" (vs 6). 

 And so Paul dealt with a major issue with aplomb, reassurance, and exhortation, pulling them together by God's grace, to see the Christian Way, unifying them to give God glory. 

 All glory be to God!

Amen.

                                                   ~ ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 11: especially vs 1-2, 13 ESV.

Sing, We Are One in the Spirit, along with Sounds Like Reign.

God's Righteousness (Romans 10: especially vs 3 & 21 ESV)

 

It's easily said ... 

"God's righteouusness". 

 But do we know what we're talking about?  I asked myself that.  "What does it mean?"

The easy answer is, "Oh, He is sinless, has always been sinless and will be forever sinless."  He is perfect, holy, faithful.  All this is 100% correct.  He is totally incapable of sinning.  Therefore, we say God is righteous.  He IS righteousness.

We cannot, should not be, ignorant of this but many are.  Many think they can become righteous by doing good deeds by being good, kind, and morally upright.  They don't harm anyone.  They think if they live like this long enough they'll hopefully earn enough merit to call themself "righteous" and to be righteousness.

Don't get me wrong.  A good-living person can be appreciated especially when their benevolence touches you.  But the thing is, that these types of people do have a major flaw.  That is, they

" have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God" (Romans 10:3 ESV).

You see, when God breathed into Adam's nostrils the breath of life, (see Genesis 2:7 ESV), Adam had not yet sinned.  He was capable of it but was as yet in an innocent state.  He had not yet done good or bad.  We know that he eventually did do wrong and sinned.  In that innocent state he could not be called 'righteousness'.

His actions showed that he had not submitted to the righteousness of God.

This helps me see the difference.  This is what the Jewish Christians in Rome needed to understand for themselves too.  Before calling the kettle black, they had to look at themselves first and see this.

God had given the Israelite nation of old, the Law to live by.  That's how they could calculate their wrongdoings and level of righteousness by how well they upheld those Laws of God.

In the final analysis they were unable to

 "establish their own righteousness" (Romans 1:3 ESV).  

And even though God ...

" ... held out [His] hands [all day long] to these disobedient and contrary people" (vs 21)

they did not submit themselves to God's righteousness.

This is the crux of the matter.  We cannot 'go it' alone, even if we think we can.  Adam and Eve thought they could.  They put the bandaid of fig leaves over their nakedness - the first ever 'cover up' of sin - but they still knew they were wrong.  They tried to hide from holy and righteous God.

Actually, in light of today's current events re: the Israel - USA - Iran war, verse 21 makes me want to cry.  God is beseeching Israel.

"But to Israel He said, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people" (Romans 10:21 KJV).

"All day long ..." God has been holding out His hands to them.  He did so way back in Bible times and I believe He is still doing so today.  If only they would not be ignorant of this stance!

And not only to those in Israel, but to those in the USA and those in Iran; hey, in fact to the world over ... God's hands are stretched out to one and all who would come willingly to seek Him and His righteousness.  Others have.  Why not you?

Let's not be foolish nations and people to go on living in ignorance.  God wants to impart and impute His righteousness to YOU!

Come as your are - whether you are a good-living person or a bad one.  Submit to Him through Jesus.  Be established in God's righteousness - believe.

                                                   ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 10: especially vs 3 and 21 ESV.

Sing, Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, along with Chet Valley Songs and Hymns.

The Stumbling Stone (Romans 9 especially vs 30-31 ESV)

 Curiosity may lead a reader of the letter to the Romans to wonder just to whom this letter was written.  Was it to the Jews?  Was it to the Gentiles?

It may be discovered that the group of Christians in Rome had been mostly of the Gentile variety.  They had been living by the faith that had saved them.  They had been made righteous by that which had not come from following the Halakha (Jewish religious law).  Rather, it had been by faith.  And it was through faith and Holy Spirit's guidance they now lived and led sanctified lives.

At that time Rome had opened up its borders once again to allow Jews who had formerly been expelled by Emperor Claudius around A.D.49.  They began to return roughly around A.D.52.

When returning Christian Jews found the congregation of Gentile believers things got somewhat topsy-turvey.  Confusion about needing to follow the Jewish laws spiked.  Thus, Paul's letter to the Roman believers.

He reminded them that it had been by faith in Jesus Christ that they'd been saved, not by works.  Not by following the Law.  This was part of the stumbling stone and "rock of offense" that needed to be navigated.

Picture someone intentionally placing a stone, not a small one, in the well-worn path hundreds of people filed by everyday, for years and years.  That walkway had been clear, with no serious obstacle for years on end.  Now, suddenly, a stumbling stone appears.

Half asleep morning pedestrians walk by, businessmen and women hurrying, hurrying hurrying by, clutching their briefcases, laptops and coffee, intent on getting to work and almost trip but see the stone last minute, managing to overcome this moring blip.  Even the blindman who traversed this way daily, 'saw it' with his trusty white cane.  He continued unhindered on his way to work.

Then some, at slightly slower pace, engrossed in their phone screens, came along and stumbled over that stone.  Flashes of anger well up, many cursing and kicking that stone.  How dare it be there, distrubing their addictive screen viewings! They finally circumvent the obstruction, and continue on their way in annoyance, huffing, puffing and spluttering.

The Jews of Rome stumbled in much the same way.  It was understandable.  They'd been taught since birth about adhering to all these Laws, as it was the way to righteousness and pleasing God.

But they had accepted Jesus as Savior through faith.  It was difficult though to separate and retrain their minds to give up the Law as a means of being made holy and righteous before God.  It was so very difficult.

Paul graciously leads them through it showing them the stumbling stone.  He could do it because he had gone through all this himself.

Jesus Christ had been the stumbling stone and rock of offense for him and them but now they must be reminded of the very way in which they'd come to Christ in the first place.  It had been through faith and not by works of righteousness.  Right?

It's so true even today, that after many years of thinking one way, having been brought up in one particular culture or another, that it could well clash with God's standards and values of Christian living.

What are the "stumbling stones" for you?  Are they going to trip you up?  We each need to examine them in the light of Scripture and by the guidance of the Holy Spirit if we sincerely want to navigate around the stumbling stones, to live well for Christ.

By God's grace, let's do that.

                                                   ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 9: especially vs 30-31 ESV.

Sing, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less, along with Sovereign Grace Music.

The Spirit of Slavery (Romans 8: especially vs 12-16 ESV)

 Fear can make a person a slave.  A slave to whatever or whomever creates the fear within.  Fear that takes hold and controls even our very breath if that were possible.  This can be referred to as

 "the spirit of slavery" (Romans 8:15 ESV).

When a person accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, they did NOT receive such a spirit.  It is the Spirit of God and of adoption into God's family we have received.

This Spirit - the Holy Spirit - clicks in our spirit and heart and mind causing us to know and acknowledge God is our father to whom we belong.  We cannot help to cry out to Him,

"Abba!  Father!" (vs 15).

We can be led by this Spirit, knowing then we are "children of God" (vs16).  We have an almighty and powerful Father who has our backs.  We no longer need to have crippling fear nor be slaves to that fear.  With this Spirit of God we can then

 "put to death the deeds of the body" (vs 13 ESV). 

 This frees us to live according to the Spirit rather than be controlled by our fears.

And when those fears begin to raise their ugly heads in our minds and hearts, cry out, "Abba!  Father!"  We remind ourselves to whom we belong, thereby relinguishing the fear and death-giving slavery.  Therefore, we can live.

Let's give all our praise, worship and service to our God and King and Savior Jesus Christ.  We can do so by the empowerment of His Holy Spirit.

Amen.  

So be it.

                                                    ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 8: especially vs 12-16 ESV).

Sing, Lord, My Rock and My Redeemer along with Sovereign Grace Music.

My Mind vs My Flesh (Romans 7:6, 23-25 ESV)

 

Reading through the letter to the Romans feels like one continuous sermon, at least so far.  It is something one has to read slowly and maybe even backtrack to keep the thread of the thoughts before moving forward once again.

It feels like it is difficult to comment upon but it is interesting as it is causing one to use ones' full concentration.  It's a letter one really needs to read through for oneself, too.

It gives life and hope and greater understanding even if one can only grasp tidbits with ones' fingertips.  But thank God we can begin to understand this new way of life through the Holy Spirit helping us to live by the Spirit and to serve the Lord, not by following a set of rules (although they are good rules) but

 "to do so through keeping in step with the Holy Spirit" (see Romans 7:6 ESV).

In this way we can be fed with the meat of the word of God and

 "delight in the law of God, in [our] inner being" ( vs 21).

And do you ever feel wishy-washy or yo-yo like?  First you feel like you can do this Christian life of discipline with the Lord's strength and then you fail?

It's good to know that a stalwart mighty man of God like the Apostle Paul was battling this struggle too.  But it wasn't really that he or we are yo-yo's.  He explained it like this,

" ... but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members" (Romans 7:23 ESV).

Paul despairs some, but then gives God thanks, that through Jesus Christ our Lord we get help.  He acknowledges that he serves,

" ... the law of God with [his] mind, but with [his] flesh [he] serves the law of sin" (Romans 7:25 ESV).

And then we get the breath of fresh air as we skip into Romans 8 ...

We are no longer condemned by this, at least for those of us who are "in Christ Jesus".

We have been set free through the Spirit of life in Christ.  Thus when we keep in step more consciously, as we walk humbly in the fear of the Lord, we are empowered to choose to walk aright, despite the struggle.  May God's Word and His Spirit shape our mind, heart and life.

Lord, help us all.  Amen.

                                              ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 7 especially vs 6, 23-25 ESV.

Sing, Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me, along with City Alight.

Alive in Christ (Romans 6:17-19 & 22 ESV)

 When God formed Adam out of the dust, Adam was still inert.  That is, until God

 "breathed into [Adam's] nostrils the breath of life and man became a living creature" (Genesis 2:7 ESV).

Before that breath of life entered into Adam's nostrils, he was body and soul and spirit.  Yet the spirit was not yet alive.  He only became "a living creature" when God's breath entered into his nostrils.

Mankind is body, soul and spirit.  This is different than the animal kingdom.  Our pets and safari beasts, birds of the air and the fish of the sea have body and soul.  Only mankind, whether male or female are body, soul and spirit.

But the instant Adam sinned, he died.  You may argue - no he didn't.  He lived to be 930 years old (see Genesis 5:5).  I tell you, it was not his body that died that day.  It was his spirit.

Ever since then any human baby in the womb and then born, has a dead spirit in their body and soul.  We all become 

"slaves of sin" (Romans 6:17).  

We cannot help ourselves.

No penance or atoning action on our part can ever make our spirit alive.  We can only be set free from sin and its consequences through our faith in the free gift of God He bought for us through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection.

Jesua paid the penalty for our sin.  That sin that caused dead spirits within us.  And praise God, the instant we accept Jesus Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit indwells us. The slave chains of sin are broken and fallen off and be become new creatures in Christ.

The Holy Spirit breathes into us the "breath of life" and we become new creatures in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).  Our spirits become alive once again.  No longer are we slaves to sin but 

"have become slaves of God" (see Romans 6:22).

We can now

 "present our members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification"           (Romans 6:19).  

This is because we are now united with Jesus and spiritually reborn - a new creation                    (2 Cor. 5:17).

We have been set free from sin.  We are new in Christ.  Our spirits are alive.  Now we must show the fruit of this, living sanctified lives.  The Holy Spirit and God's Word providing the guidance as our souls (the mind, will and emotions) choose to do what's right in God's eyes.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 6:17-19 and 22 ESV).

Sing, Alive In Christ, along with Reawaken.

True Power (Romans 5:6-11 ESV)

 Power is often shown off in plays that attempt to boost the ego and of the one displaying their body built bodies, or the beauty on their faces and the like.  People vainly try to show how strong they are and they dont' need anyone's help.   They get rather defensive to preserve the illusion.

We don't like others to see our weaknesses and limitations.  Some people's are more obvious, like a person on crutches or sitting in a wheelchair.  I mean NO offense to anyone in such situations.

I'm just saying, even supposedly "able bodied" folks desparately want to cover any flaws.  But we are all human beings and therefore we are weak.  We have been weak since Adam sinned in the Garden of Eden.

Once we can acknowledge our weaknesses, flaws, and sinfulness, that's exactly when we can get the help we so desparately need. Did you know it?

"For while we were still weak (or without strength [KJV]), at the right time Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6 ESV)

Did you get that?

" ... while we were still weak ..."

This is when Christ scooped in and fulfilled His act of being able to justify us, to die for our sin, weaknesses and limitations.  He did so to give us His strength and righteousness.  He is our true 'power source,' if you will.

We were sinners and ungodly and without strength. 

 "But God showed His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8 ESV).

If you read through the whole chapter 5 of Romans, you'll see short phrases that read, "much more," or "much more than" and even the single word, "abounded."

"Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (see v. 20).

These superlatives acknowledge we are weak but that our Almighty God who is always strong, sent us the One, His only begotten Son, Jesus, to give us His strength.  When through faith in Christ and His death, we accept this gift, we then become empowered through His Holy Spirit who then indwells us.

He gives us His strength to lean on.  We don't have to go it alone.

"Much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God" (v. 9).

"...much more, now that we are reconciled, shall wbe saved by His life" (V. 10).

"...much more than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ ..."        (v. 11).

Let's be glad and rejoice "much more" that we, by God's grace, can be made strong.  This is true power and it is measureless and never gets exhausted.

All glory be to God.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 5:6-11 ESV.

Sing, Lord, My Rock, My Redeemer, along with Sovereign Grace Music.

Unwavering Faith (Romans 4:13-25 ESV)

 

About Abraham ...

"He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body ... No unbelief made him waver ... but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced ... his faith was "counted to him (imputed KJV) as righteousness" (Romans 4:19-20 ESV).

When you look at some of the verbs there, it emphasizes how solid Abraham's faith had been. 

 "He did not weaken" 

followed by 

"no unbelief made him waver,"

 then 

"he grew strong in faith". 

 

How did he do that?  By 

"giving glory to God."  

He was fully convinced God would keep His promise to Him, despite all the impossible odds against an heir being apparent.  What's more is that this heir was not just Isaac his son, but through him and his faith, would come the

 "heir of the world" (vs. 13)!  

How profound is that!

No challenge is too great for God!  

"With God all things are possible" (Matthew 19"26).

When we see our health weaken, when we have obvious limitations in any other capacity, we too can be fully convinced that God keeps His promises.

The promise God made to Abraham was that he'd have a son by Sarah.  Both were in their old age.  Sarah had been barren even in her younger child-bearing years and now you expect her to bear a child!?  Incredulous.

But Abraham believed God.  It was

 "counted/imputed to him as righteousness" (see vs 22).

The emphasis is on Abraham's belief.  That is, versus unbelief.  Will we believe God and His promises?  Will we grow strong in our faith in Jesus despite all odds, even by giving glory to God when things look bleak otherwise?

Let us believe 

"in Him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord.  He lived and died for our tresspasses and raised for our justification" ( vs 23-25).

Believe in this salvation that it is by faith not by whatever good deeds and works we may be doing as penance or in hope to achieve getting into God's good books.

That is not how God works.

"By grace you have been saved through faith.  And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV).

Furthermore, Abraham lived by faith and then showed it by his works (vs 4).  His spirit knew within him how he needed to live and whom he needed and could trust.  In so doing he became

 "the father of all who believe ..." (vs 11).

May we each be encouraged to have unwavering faith in our loving, heavenly Father God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Cling on to Jesus.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of such a man of solid faith as Abraham.  May we too grow in grace and in faith by giving you glory and honor; living our lives to please You, serving You with our whole hearts, and that trust in You and Your promises that You will bring us Home to Yourself in Your good timing.  May we ever be faithful and cling to Jesus all the days of our lives until Jesus comes.  Perhaps today.  In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

                                                      ~  ERC  April  2026  ~

Based on Romans 4:13-25 ESV.

Sing, My Hope is Built On Nothing Less, along with Sovereign Grace Music.

Reaching Out to You (Romans 3:1-8, 21-31 ESV)

 Growing up in a Christian family will have its advantages.  The offspring learn from early age, all the deportment of a Christain.  If they abide by it, they do have better shelter from harmful things. That's generally speaking.  Some Christian families may not behave as Christian as you might think they should, however.

But, again, that's all generally speaking, and the children know it all in their heads.  It certainly doesn't mean they have it all in their hearts.  So some of them kick against it in resistance and rebellion.  

Then they may feel guilt for this reaction and become angry and even bitter and so turn away from their roots.  Even so, I believe that generally speaking, much of what was taught, does stick and govern their lives in unaccountable ways, even subconsciously.  I know.  I was one of them.  At times, that resistance can still flair up.

These thoughts struck me as being parallel in many ways in which Paul describes the advantages the Jews had over the Gentiles, in Romans 3.  The Jews claimed the oracle of God for themselves, as if they'd had a monopoly on them.  But they did not know that they were the 'trustees' - if you will - of The Law and the Prophets (Old Testament).  And even though they were not necessarily following it all from the heart or the head, they were not willing to share it with others.  They got violent at even slight mentions of any such thing happening (read the book of Acts for more details of this).

Paul is addressing some of this and trying to get his audience to undersand.  Justification can come not just through the law but more importantly through faith.

"All have sinned" (vs 23), 

not just the Jews and not just the Gentiles.  All.  All mankind,

"fall short of the glory of God" (vs 23).

Therefore, all,

"are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus ..." (vs 24).

Yes, it came to the Jews first, but God meant His gift of salvation for all, for the "whosoever will" (see John 3:16), who would believe in Jesus, by faith (vs 28).

So whether we have grown up in a Chriustian family or not in today's world, it is still, "by faith" that we enter into God's family through Jesus.

It still has to come voluntarily from the will and heart of a person.  It is not by religiously following a creed or set of laws but through faith in Jesus Christ and His offer of salvation.

Those of us who have grown up in Christian families ... let's not throw out the baby with the bath water.  We may have observed many inconsistancies and hyporcrisy in our own family or among the church people you've met.  There's something called, "progressive sanctification" that each and every believer in Jesus Christ needs to be responsibly and pro-actively aware.  If we are not living by faith, if we are not walking in step with the Holy Spirit, living a disciplined Christian life, there will be those who do not live to please the Lord.  The product of that is the hypocrisy you've endured and even felt disgusted and disgruntled by.  This is sad fact.

We need to search our own hearts and lives and see where we are out of line.  Let's not throw out everything we've been brought up immersed in, let's break free of those bonds though that don't add up. Set our own course accordingly and live to please the Lord by the power of His might and Holy Spirit empowerment.

I reach out especially to those who have grown up in Christian families and have been almost totally immersed in a Christian community all their lives.  It can be tough finding our way then through non-Christian territory.  But I'd encourage you to spend time with the Lord and listen for His voice.  He'll steer us right when we heed His guidance.  

May our Lord be near and dear to you.  I ask in Jesus' name, amen.

                                            ~  ERC  April 2026   ~

Based on Romans 3:1-8, 21-31 ESV.

Sing, Christus Victor, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Made in the Image of God

 What does it mean?  This being made in the image of God, what is it all about?

Well, it's important to know this, to get it into our minds because then it affects our thinking and actions for the good and better of those who understand it.  But we need to go back to God's word to check it out.

In Genesis 1:27 we're told,

"So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created Him; male and female He created them" (ESV).

Made in the image of God ...

What is an image?

When we look into the mirror we see ourself. It is only an image or picture of ourself, it is not our real self.  Pinch your cheeks now, feel it?  That's you, yourself.  What you see in the mirror or in a selfie is the image of you.

So how is it that we are an image of God?

Some people think we Christians worship and serve three gods.  But I say, no, that's not correct.  We worship and serve only the one true God and Jesus Christ His Son.  Know that God is God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.  The Almighty, Supreme Being who is God with three persons or maybe it can be understood as 'roles'.

Take your Mother, for instance.  She was first a daughter.  How she relates to her parents is one way.  Then she got married and became a wife.  She relates to her husband in another way that is different from how she relates to her parents.  Then she had you, and perhaps other children too.  Now she is a Mother.  She relates to you, her son or  daughter differently than how she relates to her husband which is again, different to how she relates to her parents.  She is only one person but she has three roles or functions, shall we say.

God the Father is the mastermind to the plan of creation and the plan of salvation.  God the Son, who is Jesus, is the one who implemented the plan. He spoke and the world and all that in it is, appeared.  God the Holy Spirit, hovered over all like a life-giving agent.  He is one Being and each role was initiated differently and accordingly.  

You could perhaps get out a triangular hanger and see the three sides of it as being a representation of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.  If you take one arm away, the hanger will not function well, it will be weak and shaky.  So too, one cannot separate God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.  They cannot be separated.

Go boil an egg until it is hard boiled.  You have a whole egg there, right?  Well, remove the shell.  Is the egg still whole?  No.  The shell has been separated away.  Now remove the egg white.  You are left then with the yolk that is separated from the rest.  If you hold up the shell, or the white or the yolk, you no longer have a whole egg.  Correct, or not?  The three parts have been separated and can not be put back together again, like Humpty Dumpty who had had a great fall.  All the pieces cannot be put together again.

But, God, despite His three persons, cannot be separated, at all.  We serve one God.

At creation, God formed human kind last of all and installed them (Adama and Eve) in the beautiful Garden of Eden.  He then told Adam (and Eve), 

"Don't eat of the tree of the knowledged of good and evil because in the day you do you will surely die" (Genesis 2:16 ESV).

But Adam did disobey and he did eat of that tree's fruit.  But he did not instantly die.  We read that he lived to be 930 years old (Genesis 5:5).

So how?  Was God lying?

No.

This is the part we're coming to where we can realize more fully about being made in the image of God, and how valuable we are to Him.

As you know from reading above, God is three in one:  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Mankind has three parts too.  They are body, soul and spirit.  This makes them different than the animal kingdom.  Our pets, zoo animals and those in the wild all have only a body and a soul.

The body is easy to understand:  arms, legs, hair, liver, heart, the seeing, smelling, hearing, tasting, touch, and the like.   Our soul is the mind, will and emotions.  The will says, "I do not want this or that" or "I want!"  The emotions are sad, happy, tired, angry, depressed and so on.  The mind thinks it all.  Our spirit, on the other hand is the part of the human being that is God-conscious.  That niggling part of us that knows there's God even if we do not wish to admit it.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time.  He has also set eternity in the human heart ..." (Ecclesastes 3:11 NIV).

'Eternity' in the human heart.  God is the Eternal one.  

None of this was said about the animal kingdom (including the birds, insects, fish, etc).  Nothing about eternity, nor the spirit.

When God formed Adam out of the dust of the earth, we read this about what the Lord God did.  He,

" ... formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature ..." (Genesis 2:7 ESV).

God's 'breath of life' was breathed into Adam.  He had just been a lump of formed clay lying there.  But then the breath of life came and Adam got up and walked around.  He was now a "living creature".

Maybe you can picture this if you blow into a balloon.  That is your breath of life filling the balloon.  Not that we human beings are balloons, of course.  Ha, ha.  But for Adam, God's breath of life was life giving.

God made us special, differently from the animal kingdom.  I believe this shows us that we have value in God's eyes.  We are very important to to Him.  In fact He calls us His jewels or treasured possessions (see Malachi 3:17 KJV/ESV).

It is important to realize this because, every single baby in its mother's womb is also precious.  These babies have also been made in the image of God, whether or not it has been born.

Born or unborn, both are precious in God's sight because the human being has been made in the image of God.  Each human life needs to be protected.

So how does this make you feel?

You are of value to God.  Even when other people put you down and make you feel as small as an ant or cockroach to squish you under their feet, know in your heart and mind that you are NOT that.  Cling tightly on to this knowledge.  You are God's treasured possession!

To continue the story ...

Adam had his body, soul and then spirit.  His spirit was innocent.  He had not yet sinned.  He could sin or he could choose not to sin, though.  He was still innocent.  But he disobeyed God and ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.  Adam sinned.  Instantly, his spirit died.  

It is like someone took a pin and popped the balloon.  

His spirit did not leave but it died.  Every single baby born after this was was born with a dead spirit. 

And this is where Jesus comes in again.  God's mastermind plan of salvation was carried out by Jesus.  He came to earth, died on the cross for our sins, was buried, was resurrected and then ascending into Heaven.  He is alive.

Any and all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, are then indwelt by His Holy Spirit.  This is like getting that breath of life breathed into our nostrils.  Our spirit is revived and we become new creatures in Christ - alive in Christ.   Jesus did this for us.  He did not die for animals, but for human beings.

He has given us forgiveness of sins, eternal life, our spirits made alive.  Now we can glorify God in the right way.  We can build our relationship with Him and make it strong because His Holy Spirit helps us to live to please Jesus, and to reflect God's holiness.  

Why?

Because we have been made in the image of God.

It's important to know this and to believe it.  

May every last person who reads this realize it.

I ask it in Jesus' name, amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Genesis 1:27, 2:16, 5:5, 2:7 ESV, and Betsy Fletcher's explanations for children video.

Sing, In the Image of God,  along with Perkantas Jakarta.

God's Kindness (Romans 2:1-11 ESV, esp vs 4)

 

If only we would allow God's kindness and goodness, His forbearance and His patience to seep into our souls.  If only ... His kindness might lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4 ESV).

We cannot presume upon them.  We need to have a holy life.  We need lives that do not insist on doing wrong, especially all that list of them as we read in Romans 1.  When we know what's right and pleasing to the Lord but keep

 "hard and impenitent hearts" (vs 5), 

 insisting we can slander, envy, be deceitful, and use our bodies in ways they were not designed to be used, (read more about the ungodly and unrighteous way of living from Romans 1:18, 28-32) there will be not change for good in our lives.  And definitely do not say, 

"everyone else is doing it!  So why not me?"

If we purport to be followers of Jesus Christ we need to honor God with our lives.  The Apostle Paul was telling the Roman letter recipients thoroughly of these things.

When we know to do right but do not do it, it damages our souls.  Let's yearn for and after God's kindness so we will be led to repentance and find honor and peace from Him.

As Billy Graham has been attributed with having said,

"God won't trespass on your will but He will warn you in many ways about your way."

May we seek repentance and to do what's right in God's eyes because we have been led to this point by His goodness and kindness.  He is patiently waiting for us. 

Lord, teach us Your ways and to follow in Your footsteps until You call us Home.

                                               ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 2:1-11 esp vs 4 ESV.

Sing, Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me, along with City Alight.

                                              

Lord's Day Devotion - "Welcome Home" Light

 Lighthouses are beautiful and picturesque, standing straight and tall, and often alone.  They don't let vanity go to their heads though.  Lighthouses let their lights shine out so those at sea may see.

That is their function and purpose so that hopefully, passing ships are not wrecked on reefs, rocks and the like.  We could also say, they are "welcoming home" beacons.

Jesus called Himself the Light of the world.  He said:

"I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12 ESV).

He is our Lighthouse.  He is the whole world's Lighthouse.  If only all would be guided by Him to come safely ashore to receive His offer of salvation.

Many of us have.

In turn now, He has purposed us, His followers, to be the light of the world so that our generations will

 "not walk in darkness but have the light of life."

He says in Matthew 5:16,

"... let your light shine before others, so they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven" (Matthew 5:16 ESV).

We may often feel 'alone' in our shine-ing but we can still be as resolute as a lighthouse, welcoming others home to the safe arms of Jesus.  We can stand straight and tall for the Lord, remembering our function and purpose so that we give God glory and draw others to Christ Jesus - The Light of the World.

Let's remember Jesus our Savior, our Light, as we partake of the broken bread this Lord's Day and drink of the  cup of wine in rmemberance of his death and resurrection for us, and His having been our Light that brought us out of darkness.

Praise You Jesus, for showing up the safe route by being Light for us.  Thank You.  Amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Matthew 5:16 and John 8:12 ESV.

Sing, The Light of the World is Jesus, along with N Crew.

In the Same Breath (Romans 1:28-32 ESV)

 " ... to do what ought not to be done  ... though they know God's righteous decree ..." (Romans 1:28 & 32 ESV).

More and more I've seen and experienced this.  And I believe that many of us will be able to acknowledge that even in our own hearts there are roots of this.  We know in our heads what's right in God's eyes but we cast it aside to do what we ought not.

And it's easy to point at others because of the pronouns used in these verses:  "they," "they," and "they," multiple times.  So this does not include "me," right?  Ha, ha.  We need to think again.

It is good to examine ourselves in God's mirror.  He equates several ugly things in one sentence.  Read verses 29 and 30.

To name some of those 'ugly' things there's:   covetousness, envy and gossip that don't seem quite so bad as murder and maliciousness.  Do they?

Yet God says them all in one breath.  Many of the so-called, in our sight, "lesser evils" may well be the kindling and spark that set off a chain reaction lighting fire to the others.

When we allow our minds to become "debased," not acknowledging God and the ways we have been taught - perhaps since birth if one so happens to have been raised in a Christian family -  then God

 "gives the person up" 

to his own desires.

God doesn't force anyone.

We get to choose and if it's the wayward way, away from God's standards and values, then He will let the person go.  That's what they wanted.

Until ...until there's repentance.  There is still hope of reconciliation although one may still have to bear some of the consequences of our own bad earlier choices.

The verses at the outset of this article are what really concern me.  Because those of us who have lived in the Christian community since birth and/or have been Christians for decades, we know a lot about God, Jesus and living the 'right' way according to His standards and values.  It's A LOT of knowledge.

But do we have understanding?  Do we have it in our heart?  Do we live it?  This is what I ask myself.

And if I gossip, become haughty or boastful, I have to remember that in the same breath, God equates insolence and murder, heartless and the ruthless people.

It is a serious thought.  Let's humbly confess to our Lord and Savior, the areas we need to sincerely address.  Come before Him on our knees, in contrite repentance.  If we confess, He'll forgive (see 1 John 1:9).

"In all our ways, let's acknowledge Him,"

and keep close to Him, walking in His ways, not to be meaninglessly rote, but from sincerity of heart (see Proverbs 3:6)

Lord, we, Your followers, know that Your Holy Spirit indwells us and that we are God's temple of Your Holy Spirit.  Help us to be more conscious of His presence in and with us, so that we live aright and please You.  I ask in Your name Lord Jesus, Amen.

                                                    ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 1:28-32 ESV and 1 Corhinthians 3:16 ESV.

Sing, What Your Are, Speaks So Loud, along with Selah Music.

HAIKU - Sinners To Saints (Romans 1:1-15 ESV)

 He wrote it in a 

letter.  Gentle splashes of

faith encouraged.  Splash!

Called to belong to 

Jesus Christ.  You are His and 

He is yours.  For sure!

He chose us.  We chose

Him.  We belong to Jesus.

Splash!  Chosen, in Christ.

Loved by God.  Called to

be saints.  Saved by grace.  Our stand-

-ing in God's sight.  Splash!

Sinners to saints, by faith

in Jesus Christ.  Now build and

Establish that faith.

Rooted.  Grounded.  Faith

built.  Grown gently or by storm.

Strengthened, wave by wave.

Splash!  Time for fruit.

Faith plus works, produced in time,

Unfaltering walk.

Gentle splashes.  Walk

it.  Talk it.  Write it.  Mail it.

Intentional splash. 

       ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 1:1-15 ESV.

Sing, By Faith, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.