Romans 3:23 – Don’t Deny It

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” (Romans 3:23)

There is no denying it. This verse calls us out as we are included in the “everyone” Paul is referring to. What have we done? We have sinned and fallen short of God’s hope for us. Remembering we’re not perfect keeps us honest and keen on realizing we need a Savior. That’s why this memory verse is so powerful.

Context: Paul’s instructions to the Romans in this chapter center around the sinful tendencies of humankind. Paul is quick to remind us that Jesus took our punishment. We can be made right with God not by keeping the law but because of Jesus. This is a key section of Scripture, and this verse is right there in the midst of it.

Just because we have the assurance that Jesus took our sins to the cross doesn’t mean we should carelessly go through life sinning. That would be like slapping Christ in the face for what he has done for us. As Christ-followers, we strive instead to be more like Jesus while trying to curb our sinful behaviors.

God wants so much more for us than we could ever imagine. When we sin, we only drive a wedge farther between us and God, and we may never realize all the good things God has planned for us. It’s a little like leaving money on the table during a business transaction. How many times have we walked away from a windfall and not even known it because we’re so focused on our own goals?

I heard a sermon once about this idea of this “glorious standard.” Have you ever thought about how God sees you? You are his precious child, and he wants you to succeed. He doesn’t want harm to come your way, and he certainly doesn’t want the evil one to tempt you into doing something you’ll regret. The worst thing possible is to be far from God when we let our sinfulness distract us from God’s direction.

You’ll know when you’re moving in the right direction toward God’s perfect design for you. You’ll feel energized and alive, confident and joyful. Even encountering trials will become less burdensome. But know that God is not going to drag you to that place of peace and provision. He is simply waiting for us to accept his gift. Don’t deny God his dream for you because you’ll be missing out.

Let’s pray. Lord, help me to stand strong against the attacks of the evil one and my own selfish desires. It’s an ongoing battle I cannot fight without you. I acknowledge that the plans you have for me are so much better, they are glorious. My only hope is with you by my side. Fill me with confidence and open my eyes to see you and your will for my life clearly. In Jesus’ name. Amen.