Freedom Equals No Condemnation Devotion

We’ve been discussing freedom as believers in God’s provision through Jesus (see our past weekly devotions for more details). It’s important to understand how no condemnation or guilt is part of our spiritual freedom. There are many believers walking through life each day with a load of condemnation. They may have received it from the pulpit, well-meaning friends who are struggling also, even from their peers, and probably from themselves. Anytime you feel you haven’t done enough in your Christian walk to please God, you can easily fall under condemnation because you feel you should have done more.

Let’s make it clear right now, Jesus never condemned anyone when He was on earth. He came to show us what God is like, to show us the Father’s heart which is not condemnation but acceptance and love.

So then, how do you counter any condemnation from yourself or others? You need to understand the entirety of God’s righteousness through Jesus’ finished work. Whereas most churches/pastors have stressed the importance of what you do to obtain and maintain your spiritual walk (salvation), it’s not behavior modification that transforms. Changing outward behavior will only last so long until you’re frustrated. There needs to be a transformation in our hearts. God shows that in what Jesus completed in fulfilling the law for us. When the law is mixed with salvation, you end up with a half-watered gospel that hinders people in growing in God’s love and grace, emphasizing the necessity of individuals having to do more (works) to be sure God is pleased with them, will forgive them, bless them, and answer their prayers. Living under such a burden can make you wonder if you’re even really saved.

The greatest truth you can receive today is that you are forgiven through Jesus, you are righteous before God, and there is no condemnation for you as a believer. Paul stressed it in Romans 8:1, ESV, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” The freedom is knowing you are IN Christ Jesus, you’ve received God’s love gift of Jesus.

Your confidence then becomes. a reality because “NO” condemnation means that you are found innocent of any accusation and there is a not guilty verdict. God sees you through Jesus as His child, dearly loved. Live from this truth and be free from condemnation and guilt.