When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 6:20-23

Dear God, how much shame do I feel for the things I used to do and the things I still do?

On Sunday, I gave a sermon that included the sin of grumbling—especially against leadership. Then the next day I found myself really wanting to grumble about people. In fact, someone who heard the sermon asked me what kind of interactions I’ve had with someone else and I said, “Well, in the spirit of not grumbling, I’m not going to answer that.” Even that was too harsh and mean in nature, but it was truly the nicest thing I could think to say at the time and it’s still the nicest think I have to say.

Father, I must never forget that I have a long way to go before I am even close to being your holy servant. I am still a slave to so much that isn’t holy. I’m sorry. Thank you for your grace. Thank you for what you did through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. Thank you for giving me a chance at making my little life on earth something that might make a difference for your Kingdom.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen