ROMANS 6:1-4

What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?  By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?  Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?  We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

TO PONDER

Have you ever been offered a referral benefit? You know, if you convince your friends and family to sign up for this deal, or frequent this business then you will receive this reward or discount. Our children’s school even offers one! If you love us, why not share this with others who you think might love us to, and then you will receive the benefit. It’s an interesting business model, and one I was reminded of as I read this passage. We receive the benefit from the death of Jesus. It was Jesus who died on the cross and was raised to life, and yet we receive the benefits of forgiveness of sins and eternal life with our Father. It’s our free gift, our offer too good to refuse. May we understand this truth more and more in our daily lives!

PRAYER

Lord, I thank you that I was buried with you though my baptism and I am raised to new life each day because of your sacrifice. Help me to understand all this means in my life today. Amen.

Today's devotion written by Elise Von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle