Foolish Things Christians Believe: My Past Is Not Fatal Day 1

No Condemnation

With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ’s being-here-for-us no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death. Romans 8:1–2 MSG


Well, that sounds a lot different than our usual no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus translation of Romans 8:1,2, but I like the word pictures Eugene Peterson employs; strong wind, clear air. Wow! Doesn’t it just make you want to breathe deep!

Yes, we can identify with the truth that humanity, including each one of us, is dysfunctional in so many ways. We are tyrannized by the influence of sin and the outcome of death. But take another deep breath of that fresh air of forgiveness.

Don’t fret about guilt, a past that haunts like a bad dream. Christ has dealt with that low-lying black cloud. Breathe deep!

And while you’re breathing deep, breathe a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to your Savior.