Likewise, my brothers, you also have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God. (Romans 7:4, ESV)
Through my union with Christ by faith in His name, I have been set free from the law which brought sin, condemnation and death. I stand in His grace (His unmerited favor), permanently justified before my Father in Heaven. In Him, I now live and move and have my being. Verse 5 of Romans 7 tells me that while I was under the law I bore fruit to death, but now having died to the law which held me captive, I have been set free from the power of sin and can now serve God in Spirit and in truth. As I walk in His Spirit, I am filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God!
When I was hopeless, helpless AND His enemy, My God gave Himself up for me, that He might sanctify me and present me to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle. I now belong to God...my Maker is my husband! As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, my God rejoices over ME!! His desire toward me is good!
Oh Father! I am dead to sin and alive to You! Help me to embrace this truth and walk in the newness of the life You have given me in Your name. Help me bear fruit to holiness. As Your precious bride, give me the grace to submit to You in all things. Sanctify me by Your word, Father, and present me holy and without blemish before You.
Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling,
And to present you faultless
Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy,
To God our Savior,
Who alone is wise,
Be glory and majesty,
Dominion and power,
Both now and forever.
Amen.—Jude 24-25
