Thus far Paul has told us how truly sinful and undeserving we are.  Then he explained that Jesus Christ paid the price for our sin on the cross.  He took upon Himself the full weight of our sin.  Therefore, we are saved through faith in His completed work.  Thus, there was nothing we could have done to save ourselves.  Neither can we live this life as Christians were it not for the Holy Spirit who lives within us.  Even our faith is a gift from God.  Thereby, “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”  He has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places.  Nothing, absolutely nothing, can separate us from the love of God.  He IS our eternal security. Knowing all that. Why do we still find it hard to absolutely demonstrate gracious love to our brothers and sisters in Christ?  

We, the people grounded in the true faith of God must understand the liberty in which we live.  Our position is to seek Him in every decision of life.  To recognize He is our joy, our helper, our constant companion, and guide in all that we do.  Without Him, my choices are weak and usually wrong.  Yet how quickly do we let life draw us away from realizing His constant presence.  We become caught up in ourselves and so often want to believe we have greater faith than others.  Or perhaps we struggle and fight to try so hard to work our way to being sufficiently righteous and loved.  Thus, many of the squabbles and differences between brothers and sisters in Christ.  Hence Paul addresses a part of these issues in Romans 14. Revealing how a people grounded in true faith could absolutely demonstrate gracious love as a person in Christ.   

Absolutely Demonstrate Gracious Love to Our Brothers and Sisters in Christ 

Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not to have quarrels over opinions.  One person has faith that he may eat all things, but the one who is weak eats only vegetables.  The one who eats is not to regard with contempt the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat is not to judge the one who eats, for God has accepted him.  Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.  Romans 14:1-4 NASB 

As you may note, Paul is not saying we are to accept blatant sin without saying anything.  Yet, there are many taboos.  Some would argue to have a drink of an alcoholic beverage is a sin.  Others would proclaim it to be a liberty which we may partake in. Some are vegetarians and condemn any meat, while others see eating meat as being a liberty we might enjoy.  The same could be said of tatoos, watching movies, wearing anything except dresses and the list goes on.  Therefore, what are we to do within the church walls?   

Well, first Paul says, invite them into the fellowship.  Growing up so tied to “works proof”, I found I failed most often.  Falling into sin so easily. I felt most of the time ashamed to go to the very on who loved me most. My Lord and Savior.  Oh certainly, I prayed and pleaded for Him to show me how; but kept trying to do it myself.  For that reason. It is truly hard for me to remain as gracious as I should. Particularly with those who do not understand liberty in Christ.   

What Do I Mean by Liberty? 

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage…. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. Galatians 5: 1, 4-5 KJV 

That is not a freedom to sin.  For never will the Spirit draw us to sin.  He is always working for our sanctification that we may be more like Christ each day we live.  But some of the things we squabble over are not sins unless our heart condemns us in doing it.  Then for us it would be sin.   

For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love.  For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”  But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another. But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.  For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want.  But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Galatians 5:13-18 

How can I remain grounded in Faith and Demonstrate Gracious Love to Others? 

That is part of what Paul is trying to help us understand.  I am not better or stronger in faith because I declare that my righteousness is in Christ Alone.  That would be a devastating pride.  As much as is within me,  I am to try to live peaceable with others.  Now if I am firm in my faith, holding fast to God’s words.  Then I will not be upset when others try to chain me.  I would smile, order vegetarian with the vegetarians not because I have to.  Rather as an act of love to not concern them.  Wear dresses where I know the others would be uncomfortable.  They know I wear pants as well, but no one is offended either way.  That is what Paul goes on to say.   

But as for you, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or you as well, why do you regard your brother or sister with contempt? For we will all appear before the judgment seat of God.  For it is written: “As I live, says the Lord, to Me every knee will bow And every tongue will give praise to God.” So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let’s not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this: not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s or sister’s way.  Romans 14:10-13 KJV 

Therefore, all who accepted Christ as Lord and Savior will stand before Him.  I must surrender my body as a living sacrifice unto Him each day.  Let the Holy Spirit guide me and remain steady in my Bible Study and prayer.  

What about the Days we study?   

For example, I fast one day per week.  Not because it is commanded. Rather, it is like a reset button for my heart.  That doesn’t mean you need that kind of reset button.  Usually my day to fast is on Saturday.  Sometimes events cause me to change the day.  I need one day to totally focus on Jesus.  It helps me be more grounded in faith.  Never however, would I suggest that your journey must look like mine. 

  Nor would I tell you that only Sunday can be the day of worship.  I have some very dear friends that are Seventh Day Adventist.  They do believe with all sincerity that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation.  Furthermore, many can quote the Bible better than I.  (Well, my memory is not what it used to be back when I proudly could quote much of scripture.)  Perhaps pride was why God dampened my memory with chemotherapy.   

Often it is pride that causes us to look down upon othersin Christ. Particularly, those whom do not have the same sense of liberty in Christ.   

One person values one day over another, another values every day the same. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind.  The one who observes the day, observes it for the Lord, and the one who eats, does so with regard to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and the one who does not eat, it is for the Lord that he does not eat, and he gives thanks to God.  For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself;  for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.  Romans 14: 5-9 NASB 

Demonstrate Gracious Love to Others in Christ 

Therefore let’s not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this: not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s or sister’s way.  I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but to the one who thinks something is unclean, to that person it is unclean.   For if because of food your brother or sister is hurt, you are no longer walking in accordance with love. Do not destroy with your choice of food that person for whom Christ died.  Romans 14:13-15 NASB 

During Paul’s days, food had been sacrificed to idols.  Therefore, some felt that so offensive they could not in a clean conscience eat of that food.  However, we who know God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are the only true God . We know the other gods are not even real.  What offense can there be.  God told Peter to call nothing He has made unclean when he placed a platter before him.  There were health reasons during the Old Testament times that made some foods unclean as they led to health problems.  Perhaps we could say the same of much of our processed foods today.   

But still, it does not alter the fact. While with a vegetarian, I do not need to flaunt my freedom to eat meat.  Nor am I lying and saying, I do not eat meat.  I just do not have to today so as not to offend or cause them to sin.  Whether that only be their thoughts.   

I certainly would not have a drink in front of someone who is an alcoholic.  That is if I drank.   

We, grounded in our liberty and faith, absolutely must demonstrate Gracious love 

Therefore do not let what is for you a good thing be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.  For the one who serves Christ in this way is acceptable to God and approved by other people. So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.  Do not tear down the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed are clean, but they are evil for the person who eats and causes offense.  It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine, or to do anything by which your brother or sister stumbles.  Romans 14: 16-21 NASB 

So, why stubbornly insist on eating meat or drinking in front of someone it might cause to stumble. Or to give fuel to gossip unnecessarily.  

Now What About Me? 

Well for me I walk a somewhat cautious line.  Having been trapped in a legalism that drowned my faith at times. I must be even more diligent in clinging to Christ day and night.  Otherwise, I will stray toward condemning myself for everything I do,. Or I will become overly critical of those who must cling to the legalistic side.  They may be there because of sins of their own past which keep them tied tight for fear of falling.  But it is not for me to judge them.  To each of us, we stand because of Christ and Christ alone.  My righteousness is built in Him.   

The faith which you have, have [as your own conviction before God. Happy is the one who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But the one who doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and whatever is not from faith is sin. Romans 14:22-23 NASB 

I wish to close with this: 

I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.  He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.  And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord…. Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The Lord be magnified.  But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.  Psalms 40:1-3, 16,17 KJV 

Let us each day wait patiently for the Lord.  He pulled me out of the miry clay of despair and set my feet upon a rock.  That rock is Jesus.  Therein, He gave me a new song.  I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me.  The Lord be magnified.  

 DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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How Can God Command We be Subjected to Government Rulers? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed through Goodsalt.com

When I consider all the Amazing Blessings God has given me, and His gracious patience toward me my heart overflows.  It overflows with love, devotion, humility, and awe when I consider all this.  I tremble with so much emotion; I can hardly believe the wonder of it all. Then, as Romans 12 continues, we are given 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God for His Amazing Blessings. What mercies and blessings am I recalling?  

He provided for us, as unworthy as we are, salvation free and clear.  How?  By sending His Beloved Son, God Himself, Creator of the World to live a perfect, righteous life in human flesh.  A life I could never have lived in my own volition.  Then to die and pay the price for all my sin.  Sin born out of a heart so trapped in itself. I dare to believe I know what is best for me. How foolish is that?  Or I think I know what is best for those around me.

My heart! One that would rebel against His plan, if not held to account by the Holy Spirit.  I must then die to self-daily that He might shine His Glory through me. Furthermore, He gifted me to do His work.  Although I sometimes wish to shove that gift aside. I would have foolishly chosen another. But He knows what is best. 

Because of All He Has Provided Our Hearts are Cheerful In Him by Love

Because of all the mercies and blessings given us by God. We are urged to give our bodies as a living sacrifice, that is holy. It is the reasonable service we must desire. How can I do anything else? So, let’s look at what a holy living sacrifice might look at. Let us consider the 12 ways our dutiful, cheerful heart can respond to God for Amazing Blessings.  Thus, to do so in a manner of holiness that brings glory to His name in all that we do.  

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit John 15:8 KJV 

Number one of 12 Ways our cheerful heart can respond to God 

Love must be free of hypocrisy.  Detest what is evil; cling to what is good Romans 12:9 NASB 

When we pretend to “love all things” we are hypocrites.  We can love the person but not try to say that untruths are truths.  I can love the person who is transgender. But true love will not try to pretend that their lifestyle is acceptable to God.  True love cares more about their eternity than their current “feelings”. His Word is clear. This is sin and will lead to distress, unhappiness, and entrapment in spiritual death.  Love must not lie.

I can love my friend, but still boldly tell them their adulterous relationship is going to ruin their life. As well as the life of others.  Love that is free of hypocrisy must be honest, genuine concern for their well-being spiritually as well as physically.  

Number 2 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another Romans 12:10 KJV  

How often do we truly place another’s feelings, wants, needs, or desires above our own? Or when we do, how often do we feel resentment later when they do not respond in like kindness?  True, genuine self-less love can only come from the Holy Spirit in us.    It is like presented in I Corinthians 13 (so often quoted at weddings.)  But how many people truly know what those words mean? And how often are they quickly forgotten after one says, “I do.” 

Love is patient, love is kind, it is not jealous; love does not brag, it is not arrogant. It does not act disgracefully, it does not seek its own benefit; it is not provoked, does not keep an account of a wrong suffered, it does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; it keeps every confidence, it believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.  I Corinthians 13: 4-7 NASB 

How many marriages would survive without divorce, if truly we practiced this kind of love. Again, the Holy Spirit is needed for this to be the case. Guiding us each step of the way.

Number 3 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord Romans 12:11 KJV 

No matter the job or task, we are to work as though God is the one we are working for.  As such, the most difficult boss can be treated with respect.  Never are we to spend our time wastefully at work as that would be stealing.  Nor are we to take our job frivolously.   

Slaves, obey those who are your human masters in everything, not with eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.  Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people, knowing that it is from the Lord that you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve. For the one who does wrong will receive the consequences of the wrong which he has done, and that without partiality.  Colossians 3:22-25 NASB 

If this was God’s command for slaves, how much more for we who are employees. We are receiving His blessing of provision via a salary. How much more should we work as though to Him, our provider.

Number 4 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Romans 12:12 KJV 

We rejoice in hope because we know Him.  No matter what presents in our path, we know a loving heavenly Father has a perfect plan concerning us.  Our living as His Chosen, Blessed Child demonstrates to those around us of Him. Our Peace and Joy in Him shows others how marvelous and glorious we know Him to be.   

Number 5 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Romans 12:13 

Because I know who my provider is, I can give freely to others as He leads me. That also is key, as He leads me.  But that means I must be in prayer continually, so I am certain He is the one leading me.   As such, I help when that is what is truly needed.  And wait when He needs me to wait. Never do I want to be stumbling block for another. After all, God may have a different plan to grow their faith in Him alone.   The Holy Spirit will guide me in His plan and His will.  That way, I do not have anything to worry about.  Never forget what Jesus said,  

“Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’  Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? And when did we see You as a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You?  And when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’  And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me.’ 

  “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you accursed people, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels;  for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’  Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or as a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’  Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it for one of the least of these, you did not do it for Me, either.’  These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”  Matthew 25:34-46 NASB 

Number 6 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Romans 12:14

   Now He is getting personal or touching a weak spot!  How do I do that? Well, there are at Least five things I think we must do to forgive those who persist in hurting us. 

1.  Recall how many times we have offended God and been forgiven 

2.  Consider their spiritual needs.  If they do not know Christ, their eternity may be transformed with God using your forgiveness as the catalyst.  He will find someone else to share that glory with, if you fail to be the catalyst.  Then it is your loss of perhaps a crown. As for me I do want to have crowns to lay at His feet. I know it is His work, not mine.

3. Our inability to forgive is a part of our own pride. 

4.  Furthermore, Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for my name’s sake.”  Matthew 5:10.  Our inheritance is in heaven with Him.  Therefore, it is better to be persecuted for our kindness than to respond and become like them.   

5. This is not a suggestion from God, it is a command.  My daughter while visiting me pointed out that driving is so very complex in Mexico. In part, because every rule is taken as a suggestion, not a command.  For us to truly glorify God, we must remember His commands lead to our happiness and joy.  Commands are not just suggestions we can choose to ignore when we want. 

 Number 7 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15 

We are to be empathetic, kindhearted people.  Sometimes rejoicing with them that do rejoice is even harder than weeping with those who weep.  If our neighbor rejoices because he got a big raise. We may have a hard time truly rejoicing with them. Particularly, if financially we are in hard times.  That also brings us back to the question. Do we truly trust God’s goodness to us?  Or is our faith shaky instead. 

Number 8 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Romans 12:16 

How quickly we condemn another once was entrapped in a sin, we proclaim as “never”. We proclaim them unacceptable. Yet, God saved them and now they are His. Does that make them any less saved?  Are we justified in looking down upon them as less than we are?

How quickly we look at the successful Doctor as more blessed. And the poor person working hard to feed his family as less loved by God.

Do not stand in pride yourself!  Sometimes, the humblest of people with little education can be among the wisest.  Such a man was my father.  Many considered him a “poor dirt farmer who could barely read or write.”  But he was far wiser than most of whom I saw around town as I grew up.  His was a heart that demonstrated God’s grace and love.  Even though he could not read the Bible with clarity he talked with God as he worked.   

 Number 9 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17 KJV  

Do not yourself become evil because of what someone has done to you.  Honestly proclaim the name of Christ.   

But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be in dread,  but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who disparage your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.  For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. For Christ also suffered for sins once for all time, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit I Peter 3:14-18 NASB 

Number 10 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Hebrews 12:18 KJV 

Sometimes it is not possible because we live in this broken world.  But we are to desire to make this our goal.  Yet, sometimes it is not possible without compromising the truth of the word.  If to be at peace requires I deny Christ, then true peace may not be possible.  Paul knew this as violence of others against him became a part of his life.  Yet, he strove to peaceably respond.  We know that Jesus was the perfect example of this.  He was crucified and had violent acts against Him, despite He being an example of tolerance.  Yet, never did He compromise truth to bring peace.   He overthrew the money changers tables.

Number 11 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Romans 12:19 KJV 

We are not to avenge wrongs against us.  Rather, we are to hand that over to God.  Then, we are to remain faithful to Christ in all we do.  

 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.  Romans 12:20 

We should never leave someone to go hungry because they once did something to hurt us.  Some read this and say, “Yes, I want the heaps of fire filled coals to hit them. So I will do this joyfully with a vengeful heart.”  That is certainly not what is meant here.  The heaps referred to here are to remind us that God is just.  If justice is to be issued it will come from Him.  We are to do the right thing, no matter what. Even if He saves them and transforms their eternity.

Number 12 of 12 ways our cheerful heart can respond to God. 

 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21 

We are to be the light and salt to the world.  How?  By surrendering ourselves completely to God and allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us.   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo by Jay Soundo on Unsplash

Two thousand twenty-five years ago, God the Father sent His Only son. Sent to be born in a lowly manger in a sacrificial sheep birthing cave just outside of Bethlehem.  The very place where all the sacrificial lambs were born and placed in swaddling clothes to have no blemish. A gift promised to Adam and Eve.  The gift awaited for by every man or woman who believed God and by faith followed Him.  There were rituals and laws to be followed as a demonstration of their faith throughout history.  All pointed to the one Greatest Gift of all.  Jesus, in very essence God. He is the perfect reflection of all God the Father IS. Willingly He humbled Himself to be breathed into the womb of Mary by the Holy Spirit.  

The Creator of the World was born, exactly as prophesied and laid in a manger.  Not just any manger.  The very one where sacrificial lambs were born.  He was wrapped in the very same swaddling clothes as they.  Why?  Because He came to be the Ultimate Sacrificial lamb to take away the sins of the World.  How wonderful!  How Magnificently Presented! Every single prophecy fulfilled in this God’s Greatest Gift of all!  But for all those who know Him as Lord and Savior, the Gift does not stop there.  It is the gift of salvation.  For in Him alone can we be saved from the slavery we have to this sinful flesh we live in.  Our minds so quick to wonder, to worry, and to do evil.  Always seeking to be proud of ourselves, only to fail in our own effort.  Our chains are broken by His Grace. 

The Greatest Gift Bearing Gifts 

But if that were not enough, God’s Greatest Gift came bearing gifts galore for each who would believe.  These cannot be cast aside either.  He came to give us joy, love, and to share His glory with each of us.  If only we surrender our hearts, minds, and bodies to His Will.  That is what Romans 12:1-2 tells us as we studied last week.   

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:1-2 NKJV 

This the urgent plea given by the Holy Spirit through Paul.  Why?  Because therein lies the secret to living a life fully devoted to Him who gave it all for us.  In that life, centered in His very will, we find everything.  It has all already been given us who have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior.  But all too often we go about our busy days. We leave the gifts unopened under the tree or hidden in the closet.  His gifts!  The very precious meaning of life itself cast aside. Meanwhile we seek after that which can satisfy our thirsty souls in desert sands.  

The Greatest Gift prays to the Father for Gifts of Protection, Joy, Truth, Love, and Glory for us 

But now I am coming to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves.  I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I am not asking You to take them out of the world, but to keep them away from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. Just as You sent Me into the world, I also sent them into the world.  And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, so that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. “I am not asking on behalf of these alone, but also for those who believe in Me through their word, that they may all be one; just as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.  The glory which You have given Me I also have given to them, so that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected n unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and You loved them, just as You loved Me.  Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. 

“Righteous Father, although the world has not known You, yet I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me;  and I have made Your name known to them, and will make it known, so that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”  John 17: 13-26  NASB 

Ephesians 1:  Laden with More Gifts than we Can Imagine or Hope for 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, with which He favored us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He set forth in Him,  regarding His plan of the fullness of the times, to bring all things together in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him we also have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things in accordance with the plan of His will, to the end that we who were the first to hope in the Christ would be to the praise of His glory.  In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of the promise, who is a first installment of our inheritance, in regard to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1: 1-15 NASB 

Since the Greatest Gift of God was not His Only Gift to You, I Pray this for You as well 

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the boundless greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might  which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and made Him head over all things to the church,  which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.   Ephesians 1:17-23 NASB 

And As if this the Greatest Gift were not Enough 

He has gifted us each with a special spiritual gift that we may use to point others to Christ.  Each given our special gift. With all those gifts working together as one within the church, it functions with His power.  Not that He needs me.  Rather He gives me the privilege to be a part of His great and magnificent work. His creature in Him working for His creation. Wow!  

so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually parts of one another.  However, since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them properly: if prophecy, in proportion to one’s faith;  if service, in the act of serving; or the one who teaches, in the act of teaching;  or the one who exhorts, in the work of exhortation; the one who gives, with generosity; the one who is in leadership, with diligence; the one who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.  Romans 12:5-8 NASB 

So, as Paul I say to you 

For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. For just as we have many parts in one body and all the body’s parts do not have the same function, Romans 12: 3-4 NASB 

Do not let pride steal your gift of serving Him from you this year.  For within that gift, He has wrapped His Glory to Share in you.   

My Greatest Plea 

Do not get so busy that you leave the Greatest Gift of All unopened.  Jesus Christ came that you might have life and have it abundantly.  But you must open that gift by asking Him to come into your heart. Believing that He is the Only Begotten Son of God who died in your place.  Repent of your sins while believing His resurrection conquered sin and death forever for all who believe in Him.  With sincerity of heart, if you hear Him calling, ask Him in.  He is the greatest gift of all and comes bearing many more gifts with Him.  If you know Him already and do not feel His joy.  Surrender your all to Him and watch His miracles unfold.  Read His word.  Sit in His presence every day.  He is all you will ever need to know peace, joy, hope, and everlasting love overflowing.   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

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If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

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Therefore Because of Who He IS Surrender Your Body Completely to God 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo by Steve Hruza on Unsplash

After 11 chapters of rich theology, we reach the Practical section of Romans.  That is: with all the knowledge we have just been given, now how do we put it to practice.  Still wrapped in these two verses is rich depth of theological truth.  So much so, that we must take our time unraveling the riches of these two verses.  Therefore, because of Who He is.  His great mercies, wisdom, and justice rationality demands you surrender your body completely to God.  Too often we try to object by saying “you cannot know my heart. I do love God, even if my actions say otherwise.” Which is true.  But, others can see the fruits of your actions. A true love of God-a trembling at His Awesomeness shows in everything we do. It may not be discerned in a moment’s action; but it is notable in a life lived devoted to Christ. 

Certainly, I cannot know if another’s actions are from a heart of love, pride or rebellion. Sometimes I have trouble gaging my own heart’s individual actions. But God does know each motive and action.  Therefore, if I am constantly seeking His word, He will reveal to me His Will in every decision placed before me. The more I am aware of His presence every second of the day, the more I lean into Him.  Thereby, through prayer and study of His word, I surrender wholeheartedly my body, mind, and spirit to Him.  As you focus on who He is and all He has done for you, it becomes urgently necessary to surrender your body completely to Him.  Why?  Because there is the sweet communion where all is covered by His peace, His love, His joy, and the knowledge that you are His Beloved Child. You are walking in His Will.     

Therefore, Because of All He IS, you must surrender Your Body Completely to God 

The book of Romans can be divided into essentially 4 parts.  1. The Wrath of God.  2.  The Grace of God.  3.  The plan of God.  And 4^th: The will of God.  Within the book of Romans the word therefore is used 27 times in the KJV.  Each pointing back to all that has gone before. This guides us to utilize all the doctrine given before completing the confirmation of what is about to be said.  We will look at three which came before this one that were essentially a summary before moving on.   Before each of these had been others, guiding us along the way to these conclusions.   

1.  Therefore, all are condemned.  All have sinned, and none can be justified by their own work.   

Therefore, by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.   Romans 3:20 NKJV   

All have sinned, and no one can be justified on their own actions.  We are condemned before a Holy God.   

2. Therefore, Justification is through Christ Alone. It is by Grace Alone, through faith alone. 

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Romans 5:1 NKJV 

This is an act of Grace beyond anything our human hearts can fully grasp, but we must recognize it as such.  No longer are we the objects of His Justified Wrath against us.  Why?  God, the Son, took on flesh to live a perfect life.  The perfect sinless life we could not.  He suffered and faced all the temptations we do, without sinning.  Then willingly He surrendered Himself to the cruel cross. He took upon Himself all the wrath of sinful man and all the wrath of God the Father.  He did all so we might be counted as righteous, though we have not one ounce of righteousness without Him.   

3. Therefore, Total Exoneration because of Christ 

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus Romans 8:1 

No Condemnation.  None.  How can that be!  Mercy and Grace.   

4. Therefore, Consecration is Certain and Demanded 

 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God. Romans 12:1 (NKJV). 

When you consider Who He is and All His Mercies toward you, how can you not surrender your body completely to Him? 

But How Do You Surrender Your Body to God? 

After all.  This flesh desires what it desires, and the fight seems too hard at times.  Are not our salvation and sanctification all by grace alone? Then, what must I do?  Is not my doing anything an act of works? Not really.   It begins by surrendering to the truth. Our sin was crucified with Christ. No longer must I or you be a slave to our sin nature. We are now raised to a new life as a new creature.  Yet, we must remember this each day and place our flesh once more on the altar.  We are a “living” sacrifice.  That means we keep wanting to jump off the altar when the flames rise up.  But again, back to how do we do this.  Thankfully, Paul gave us that very answer.   

“do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” Romans 12:2 NKJV. 

God performs the work of transformation, but we must seek His word.  Otherwise, we leave Him with no choice. To transform our mind He must systematically remove all those things we desire above Him.  Sounds cruel?  Not really.  Those are the things that keep you from full joy.  He knows that.  At other times, He does not remove them. However, He does transform your desire for them step by step diminishing them. This may be as you find severe pain in seeking them. Thus, He allows unholy desires to carry out their natural consequences. Pain, Sorrow and death.   In the most severe of cases, He may take the Rebellious Christian home as we saw in the last lesson. 

However, if you look at this verse in Romans 12 closely.  It is not a suggestion. Rather, it is a strong, urgent, pleading command.  God and Paul, for that matter, want you to live the best life ever.  Yet, that only can be found in the center of God’s will.   

Everything else will one day fade away.   

Therefore, Surrender Your Body Completely 

All too often, I think we underestimate the absolute majesty and wonder of who God IS.  He spoke this magnificent galaxy and all the others into being with one word of His mouth.  Everything is held together by Him.  Yet, He sees every tear I shed and knows each thought.  Such love is too great for me to fully comprehend.    How wondrous is He! Why would I not want to give Him everything?  What foolish desire would I want to cling to? Knowing that He has everything I need and more abundantly, I want Him above all else.  

Perfect Wisdom and Justice can lead my life to places I never thought of.  Looking back, I know that.  What a marvelous life I have been given the opportunity to have! He even took all my moments and transformed them into something glorious.  My life has been so richly filled with people, places, and unimaginable beauty.  It surrounds me with such marvel and wonderful joy, peace, and love.  As in the song by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty, “No guilt in life, no fear in death.  That is the power of Christ in me.” 

An urgent plea to surrender your body completely 

Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, Ephesians 4:1 NASB 

Just as in Romans, Paul lays out the theological framework first.  Then, he through the Holy Spirit pivots to the practicality of his teaching. He urges the reader to walk in a manner surrendered to God.  We have been overwhelmingly blessed with so much.  Ephesians describes the absolute richness of our blessings in Christ Jesus.  We are His Chosen Bride, heir of the Kingdom, Beloved, Blessed Child of God. Furthermore, we are the Possessor of all Spiritual blessings in heavenly places. As such we are honored to be His prisoner and slave (protected and cared for). That is to name a few.  Furthermore, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit, thereby having no fear.   

So, surrender is an urgent command, that we might experience the heights of His Steadfast Joy in us.   

So, back to the steps toward how to surrender your body completely. 

Paul outlined this.   

Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Romans 12:2 NKJV 

J.B Phillips Version reads: “Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould”  ¹ 

Where does sin begin?  In your mind.  You see something and the more you focus on it the more you desire it.   

Ok, but how do you not do that?  

1. Study His Word every day, morning and night.   

the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,  2 Corinthians 10: 4-5 (NASB) 

Or again, as J.B Phillips paraphrased it: 

The truth is that, although of course we lead normal human lives, the battle we are fighting is on the spiritual level. The very weapons we use are not those of human warfare but powerful in God’s warfare for the destruction of the enemy’s strongholds. Our battle is to bring down every deceptive fantasy and every imposing defence that men erect against the true knowledge of God. We even fight to capture every thought until it acknowledges the authority of Christ. 

Or as King David, the cry of our heart must be: 

10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 

11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 

12 Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy statutes.  Psalm 119: 10-12 KJV 

Transform Me Lord by Effie Darlene Barba 

Transform me Lord with each new day 

That I might be Your light, I pray 

To shine into each darkened heart 

Your love and mercy their impart 

So that the ones with whom I meet 

Might see your smile, I do entreat 

That you would take this feeble heart 

Surrendered to thy will to start 

A cascade of thy love divine 

Pour forth from me, your glory shine 

And lay aside all my desires 

To light a path with spirit fires 

That draw the broken, wounded lost 

Oh, Lord let me not count the cost 

But freely lay aside the “me” 

That Thou art all they truly see 

Concluding thoughts: 

Fill your life with His Presence and His Word.  Lay aside all that draws you away from Him.  Thereby, you surrender your body completely to Him.  Stay close to His word.  Remember His mercies.  And you will find your life transformed by His Spirit in you. Mary surrendered to His Will completely in faith.  Not an easy choice in her day, but she trusted Him for the Mercy God showed her.   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

PREVIOUS POST

Has God Grafted You Joyfully into His Fruitful Olive Tree?

What Happens in the Plan of God for the Israel Nation? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed from Goodsalt.com