How can Romans 1:6 inspire you to strengthen your relationship with Christ? Invited Into Christ’s Family “And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.” – Romans 1:6 What’s packed into this single sentence? • A divine call • A personal inclusion (“you also”) • A new identity (“belong to Jesus Christ”) Why This Matters to Your Daily Walk • Jesus is not a distant figure; He’s claiming you as His own. • Belonging speaks of intimacy, safety, purpose, and permanence. Scripture Echoes That Reinforce the Point • John 15:15 – “I have called you friends.” • 1 Peter 2:9 – “You are…a people for God’s own possession.” • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “You are not your own; you were bought at a price.” Practical Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship With Christ 1. Celebrate His Initiative – Reflect daily on the truth that He called first (1 John 4:19). – Thank Him aloud for choosing you; gratitude cultivates closeness. 2. Lean Into Your New Identity – Replace self-doubt with “I belong to Jesus” statements. – Memorize Romans 1:6; let it shape your self-talk. 3. Cultivate Friendship Time – Set aside unhurried moments to read the Gospels, hearing His voice. – Journal responses as if writing back to a friend (John 15:14-15). 4. Live Set Apart – Belonging pulls you out of competing allegiances (James 4:4-5). – Evaluate activities or relationships that dull your devotion and adjust. 5. Gather With Fellow Belongers – Community underscores your shared identity (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Serve together; nothing cements unity like joint mission. 6. Guard the Intimacy – Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9); unconfessed sin breeds distance. – Feed the Spirit, starve the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17). Encouragement for the Journey • His call is irrevocable (Romans 11:29). • Nothing can sever His claim on you (Romans 8:38-39). • Each fresh act of obedience deepens the joy of belonging (John 14:21). |
    |