Category: Devotions

Scripture: Romans 9:17–18 “So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills.” (Romans 9:18) Paul brings up Pharaoh, whose heart was hardened as he resisted God’s Word again and again. This is one of the harder truths in Scripture — one that doesn’t come with a fully satisfying explanation. […]

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1, 4–5 “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins… But God, being rich in mercy… made us alive together with Christ.” (Ephesians 2:1, 4–5) Martin Luther put it plainly in his explanation of the Third Article: we cannot, by our own reason or strength, believe in Jesus Christ or come to […]

Scripture: Romans 4:16–17 “That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspring… for he is the father of us all.” (Romans 4:16) Paul calls Abraham the father of all who believe — not merely the ancestor of one nation, but the […]

Scripture: Romans 1:16–17 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes… The righteous shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:16–17) We often bring our hardest “why” questions to God’s Word, hoping for a tidy explanation. But Scripture isn’t a magic formula — it’s […]

Scripture Romans 8:38–39 Reflection As Paul concludes this magnificent chapter, he piles up every possible force that might seem threatening—life and death, present and future, earthly and spiritual powers—and declares that none of them can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus. That is where every day can begin. Before you consider your responsibilities, […]