“Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith.” – Romans 3:27
Paul’s letter to the Romans reaches a theological climax in chapter 3, where he lays out the doctrine of justification by faith. But instead of ending there, Paul continues for thirteen more chapters. Why? Because he’s not writing to impress—he’s writing to shepherd. Like any good pastor, Paul knows that truth must be reinforced, not just revealed. He understands human nature—our biases, habits, and deeply embedded ways of thinking. We don’t just hold onto old patterns; they hold onto us. That’s why the gospel must be preached again and again. It’s not just information—it’s transformation. And transformation takes time, repetition, and the gentle persistence of grace.
Peter’s story is a vivid example of how deeply ingrained beliefs can resist even divine revelation. Raised under the Law, Peter had learned from childhood what was clean and unclean. Even after walking with Jesus, he still struggled with prejudice. In Acts 10, God gives Peter a vision, telling him to eat what he once considered unclean. Peter resists, saying, “Not so, Lord!” (Acts 10:14). But God responds, “What God has cleansed you must not call common” (v.15). Peter obeys and preaches to Gentiles, and they are saved. Later, at the Jerusalem Council, Peter boldly declares that salvation is by grace alone (Acts 15:11). Yet even after all this, Peter falls back into old habits in Antioch, separating himself from Gentile believers out of fear (Galatians 2:12). Paul confronts him, reminding him of the very gospel Peter once proclaimed. This wasn’t a failure of faith—it was a moment of correction. Even apostles need reminders.
Peter’s journey reminds us that sanctification is ongoing. We may know the truth, preach the truth, and still need to be corrected by it. That’s why Paul keeps writing—because we keep forgetting. The gospel isn’t just about being saved; it’s about being shaped. Colossians 3:23 says, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” Our lives are meant to glorify God, not just benefit ourselves. So here’s the call: examine your heart. Are there old prejudices, habits, or self-centered patterns that need to be surrendered? Let grace confront them. Let truth reshape them. And let your life reflect the glory of the One who saved you—not just for your sake, but for His. As David Brainerd once said, “My heaven is to please God and glorify Him.” May that be our aim, today and always.
“Boasting is excluded because salvation is not of works, but of faith. If we are saved by faith, then we cannot boast of our works. Faith is based on grace, and grace means that God does it all. All the glory belongs to God.” – Warren Wiersbe
surrendered devotions 