INSIDE AND OUTSIDE
Jenna Worsham
Today’s Scripture: “For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.” Romans 2:28-29, ESV
Theme: It’s not the outside but the inside that counts. The Lord looks at the heart.
INITIATION
In South Africa, there is a native practice where young boys are brought up to a mountain for initiation with circumcision as part of it. They must survive outside for days, injured (from circumcision) and alone. It is violent and harmful to both the boys and the community. It is dangerous. Some die. Yet, boys are drawn to the practice as part of a coming-of-age tradition passed down and encouraged by those before them. This practice, even though it includes a form of circumcision, does not honor God. This is easy for American eyes to recognize. I wonder what outward practices or traditions American culture accepts that we think we do to honor God, when really those practices grieve Him.
Circumcision was given to the Jews to differentiate them from Gentiles and to show obedience. It was a physical, life-long reminder of their covenant with God. Yet the Bible reminds us that if the outside looks right, but the inside is rotten, He is not fooled. “For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God” (1 Corinthians 7:19, ESV).
INTENTIONS
If we claim “good intentions” but cause harm by our actions, we are at fault and God sees us. Yet when our intentions are good and we seek them wholeheartedly, God sees us. If we behave when everyone is looking but really disrespect the law and all it stands for, God sees us. He knows either way. When we sincerely make a mistake, that truth can be incredibly comforting. When we slyly deceive, hoping no one notices, it should cause us to think again and check ourselves. “You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law” (Romans 2:23, ESV). Talk is cheap. Boasting is never a good idea. If you know the law, preach it, advertise it, then honor the law by living by it.
Make It Personal: Are there any commands from God that you seem to follow on the outside but disagree with on the inside? Consider praying for clarity in this area. I’m asking God to reveal to me the ways that I look okay but really need to do some inner work. How about you?
Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for including and loving all people, for not categorizing us by only what we see. We all have invisible qualities that others overlook or underappreciate. You don’t work that way. You know all our best and worst traits, and yet You love us individually and unconditionally. Help me to consider my motives, thoughts, and character. Help me to see the value of integrity, serving in obscurity, and loving people who may seem awkward. Your justice, mercy, and holiness are beyond comparison. Where do I fall short? What inner quality do I need to consider more carefully? Please give me the understanding and strength I need to change the things that not everyone can easily see. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: Romans 2:12-29
Weekly Memory Verse: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16, ESV