Some people think they're too good to need Jesus. Others think they're too bad for Jesus to want them.
Paul leaves room for neither. He says there is no difference.
The religious person doesn't get a head start because they've been especially good. And the irreligious person isn't disqualified because they've been especially bad.
We all need Jesus.
And then Paul uses one of the best words in this entire passage: Everyone.
He says that “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Not everyone who grew up in church. Not everyone who has lived a pretty good life. Not everyone who hasn't messed up too badly.
In fact, everyone means anyone.
Which means everyone includes you.
God knows your past. He knows the decisions you've made. He even knows the things nobody else knows. And He still sent Jesus for you.
You haven't done too much. You aren't too far gone. Your sin is not greater than the grace of God.
So, stop allowing what you've done to keep you from trusting what Jesus has done.
Everyone includes you.
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Today's Question:
What from my past am I allowing to make me believe I'm somehow the exception to God's grace?
Today's Challenge:
Write Romans 10:13 somewhere you'll see it today. Every time shame tells you, “Surely not you,” answer it with God's promise: “Everyone includes me.”
Today's Prayer:
“Jesus, thank You that Your grace reaches people like me. Help me stop allowing my past to keep me from trusting what You've done. Thank You that when You say everyone, You mean me too.”