If you’re a follower of Jesus, joy should be a way of life. Why? Because you’ve been completely forgiven. There’s no longer a reason for guilt or shame.
Sounds like a pretty good reason for joy to me.
The Bible says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1 NIV).
Romans 8 was originally written in Greek. The word translated “no” is the strongest possible negative in Greek. It’s as if God was saying, “No, no, no—not in a thousand years, not in a million years, not a chance in your lifetime.”
That’s important—because one of the biggest reasons people lose their joy is guilt. Guilt and shame have the power to steal your joy.
All of us make mistakes. But God doesn’t want you to live in self-condemnation, constantly telling yourself, “I should be better.”
So how does God want you to handle your guilt? By coming clean and confessing your wrong. Go to God and say, “I’m sorry. Please forgive me.” And then he’ll wipe away your sin.
Jesus Christ died on the cross so your sins would be forgiven and you’d no longer have to live with guilt! And he didn’t just die for the sins you’ve already committed. He also died for the ones you haven’t committed yet. They’re all covered under the cross.
Jesus took your condemnation. That’s why he died. Your sins have been paid for. You don’t have to pay for them again.
That’s salvation, and it’s your most important reason for joy. It’s the joy of a clear conscience.
You can experience the same joy as King David had when he wrote Psalm 13: “My heart rejoices in your salvation” (Psalm 13:5 NIV).
Rick Warren is an innovative pastor, renowned author, and global influencer known for founding Saddleback Church, the Purpose Driven Network, the PEACE Plan, and Hope for Mental Health. He has written several best-selling books, including The Purpose Driven Life, which has sold over 35 million copies in 200 languages. Time magazine named Warren the most influential spiritual leader in America and one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Since stepping down from the lead pastor role at Saddleback in 2022, Warren has continued to inspire people through his Daily Hope Devotional and podcast Pastor Rick’s Daily Hope. His first book in a decade, Created to Dream, was released in April 2023.
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
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