Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (138) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

As many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, Abba, Father.
Romans 8:14.15

Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (138)
When Christians allow the Spirit of God to guide them in their life of faith, they prove themselves to be sons of God. In their hearts they sense the nearness to God to which they have been brought.

Formerly the flesh determined their way of life, but now it cannot assume any authority over them. In place of the flesh the Christian is subject to a totally new leadership. This is not the law with its commandments, for then believers would again be committed to servile obedience.

Happily, God the Holy Spirit now dwells in the believers as a Person. So it is a matter of His leadership. In contrast to Israel's situation under the law, it becomes clear that the Christian's proximity to God is much closer, and in Christ he is much more privileged. Christians are no longer enslaved but now sons of God (cf Galatians 4:1-7).

Under the law there was only bondage and fear, under grace there is liberty and nearness. The Spirit of God is a "Spirit of adoption". He provides the Christian not only with the strength to reject the evil influence of the flesh, but testifies his new position and nearness to God as his Father. Together with this the Spirit of God gives the believer who is subject to His leading fresh motives and new objectives.

The believer is thus able to serve God freely and joyfully.

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: Jeremiah 31:15-26 · Romans 5:11-16