Romans 2:28-29 (Phillips) – I have come to the conclusion that a true Jew is not the man who is merely a Jew outwardly, and a real circumcision is not just a matter of the body. The true Jew is one who belongs to God in heart, a man whose circumcision is not just an outward physical affair but is a God-made sign upon the heart and soul, and results in a life lived not for the approval of man, but for the approval of God.
Observation
This evidence of a “true Jew” has not changed. The physical act of circumcision was intended to be physical evidence of a God-made sign on the heart and soul, evidence of living for the approval of God alone. In Christ, our circumcision is of the heart. Our physical evidence is how we represent the love and grace of Jesus in the way we live out our lives.
We can’t be Christian in name only, acting piously in the company of other Christians, but no differently than the world around unbelievers. We shame God and make a mockery of the Gospel if we do. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45) and the man acts. So, looking good is not good enough (that life lived for “the approval of man”). Our motives and heart behind what we do will be exposed as they are reflected in our actions.
Impact on Me
I was talking with someone about worship and how it must be 24/7 and motivated by a heart of gratitude, not duty driven or to fit in with the crowd. The conversation has set me to thinking. Worship should not be something I feel I owe but rather something that flows freely from my gratitude for my redemption. True worship is more than singing or spending time in the Word. True worship is when I honor my God, Father, Son and Spirit, by living a life that reflects His heart, His will, His purposes, no matter the cost to me.
The King of kings and Lord of lords has His eyes on us all; can I believe that He sees me (can you?)? Can I truly embrace that the Creator of the universe would even know who I am, and even die for me (can you?)? He owes us nothing. We are born at fault for our predicament, our circumstances. He could have left us unredeemed, but He chose to reclaim us. Those who are circumcised of the heart, full of gratitude for this unfailing Love, live a life of true worship, and their circumcision is evident to all.
Prayer
Lord God, Redeemer, Helper and Lover of my soul, I worship You. Work in me to make that circumcision of the heart evident in my life so that others may come to know You because they meet You in me. Mold and shape me so I will see with Your eyes past the outward appearance to the soul in anguish, scarred by life, needing Your healing. Fill my heart with Your compassion, Your grace, Your goodness so all I do will be true worship to You. Make it so, in Jesus’ name.
Pressing On In His Footsteps 