Exchange

When we read Romans 1, we tend to focus in the list of sins the Word describe in there; and we are quick to point out the persons who are actually living in that lifestyle. The fact is that the majority of Christians do not apply Romans 1 to themselves.

But Romans 1 needs to be used as a weapon against our passions and as a tool of self-examination. I just recently read an article from John Piper about Romans 1:23-24, and is crushing, because it explains a reflection of our souls in such a clear way and convicts us of sin immediately. In this article, Ps. Piper explains that when we fall into sexual sin, is because we literally have “exchanged” the knowledge, grace and presence of God for the pleasures we pursue constantly. When we decide to rely ore in other things rather than God, when we prefer the pleasure of our bodies and even when we decide to neglect the means of Grace in order to live, we are exchanging God’s grace, and therefore He gives us to the sins we are falling upon.

So, our constant fights are due of our exchange of Christ and His Promises, for the pleasure we want, the feeling we want, and the life we want. Relying on idols, lead us to sin. SImple as it is. And God is kind of a gentleman in that matter: “Do you want this apart from me? Ok, take it. Now let’s see how it goes”.

Now, the question is: is this exchange fair? Are the things we want NOW worth the discipline and punishment of God in that area? Why aren’t we resting and surrendering on God for everything we struggle for? Are you struggling with a lustful mind? Go to God and fill your mind with His Word! Do you desire a spouse really bad? Instead of looking on your own, look to Christ, and let Him satisfy your needs (preaching to myself here). Are you so desperate that you rather chose to sin and to go deep on it? Confess your unbelief and pray for faith in God’s promises. The exchange of the knowledge of God is far more worthy than the temporary pleasures of sin. When we say no to God and His grace and wisdom, we are saying no to the blessings He has in store for us. The sad thing is, that we renounce of those blessings everyday.

Let’s not focus only in the sexual sin, even if the text focus on that. But let’s take the main principle of the verse: when we desire other things and other outcomes and other solutions more than God, we are destined to fall and to sin. There is no other solution.

Let’s repent from this exchange. Let’s ask God to help us to not exchange Him for anything. Let’s pray to Him for strength in the moment of trial, and for clarity, in order to see the areas we are not giving up into His feet.