no condemnation

Romans 8:1 has been on my heart a lot this week.  "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit". 

This week, especially this morning, I feel like I have been carrying my baggage on my shoulders.  Beating myself up with my past mistakes and regrets.   Remembering my sins and all the consequences of those actions.

The Lord's quiet voice spoke this word into my heart in the middle of my darkness.
He reminds me that my sins are forgiven. 
My mistakes are forgotten. 
Jesus has paid the price for me.  He has taken my place and now there is no judgement for me.   His grace and mercy have given me new life.

I am not walking in the flesh, but the Spirit.  And through His power, I am made more righteous.  When I have to walk through trials, I am not doing it by myself, hopeless in my own power.  I have the Holy Spirit within me, giving me courage and strength to do what is right, or say what is right, or think what is right. 

This verse encourages me to put down my baggage and hang it on the cross and leave it there.  It teaches me to let my past stay where it is.  I don't have to rehash it and dredge it up.  It is forgiven and forgotten.

I am thankful that in Christ there is no condemnation.  There is only love, and grace, and mercy.