Ashamed or Not?

by Donna Middlestead

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” –Romans 1:16-17

Shortly after moving from Pennsylvania to our new home in California, a neighbor invited me to a neighborhood Bible study. The group was beginning a study of Romans. I was raised in a Christian home and always attended church, Sunday School, and other church activities. Faith was a part of my life. However, when I read these verses in Romans, I was struck with the thought: am I ashamed? I was not comfortable talking about my faith outside my circle of Christian friends. I realized that I had become complacent.

In verse 17, Paul writes, “For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed.” This verse encouraged me to learn more about the fundamentals of my faith. The Bible—“God’s Story”—became my textbook. Studying and understanding God’s Word became an integral, necessary part of my life.

Circumstances change in life, but God’s Word is constant. As I age, many verses take on deeper, clearer meaning for me. I can truly say, I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God that guides my life and assures me of salvation.

Thank You, Lord. Your Word brings a peace that can only come from You. Thank You for guiding me all along life’s journey. Amen.