Romans 5:8-9

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. [9] Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

“God loves you? How do you know that?” someone may challenge us. Well, we have a ready answer that comes straight from the Bible: “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

God sent his Son to die not because we deserved it or because it appeared that we might improve and be good enough for him. He sent his Son to die knowing full well that we were sinners without hope, unable to ever be good enough. To those who accept his sacrifice, he gives forgiveness and eternal life. Christ’s death on the cross makes us right in God’s sight, saves us from God’s judgment and assures us of eternal life. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

That’s the greatness of God’s love. Would we give our child or spouse or other loved one to save others? We cannot imagine it, yet that’s what God did for us.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• I showed my great love for you by dying for you while you were still a sinner.

• My blood will make you right, save you from judgment and give you eternal life with me.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

You showed your great love for me by sending your Son to die for me while I was still a sinner. What great love, Lord. I cannot imagine such an act. Help me share that love with others. May it make a difference in my life today and every day. Amen.