Romans 2
A Level Playing Field!
Good morning! This is Pastor Jerry Ingalls from New Castle First Baptist Church and today is Wednesday, August 12.
Do we play on a level playing field?
When I was training for the Olympics, I felt the pressure that comes with elite sports to “level the playing field.” I had previously attempted to make the team and had missed both teams, and I was so hungry to make the team, that I lost perspective—I became consumed by my own ambition.
Have you ever been consumed by a passion? Have you ever lost perspective on what really matters in life?
Romans 2:4-8 gives us a sober assessment to keep us focused with an eternal perspective:
Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.
The sad truth is that I forget my own story sometimes. Then, because God is merciful, He reminds me again of my great need—He calls me back to Him, to the Holy and Sovereign God, who is patient with judgement and generous with His covenant love.
Seize the moment and remember from what you have been saved! Don’t let pride or ambition get ahold of your heart; remain humble towards yourself and other people.
Truly, the playing field is already level. Each of us deserves judgment for our sin and we all must learn to live in daily dependence on God’s mercy and grace. Never forget!