Romans 10, 11

Paul reveals the reason why God’s chosen people (Israel) were blinded in part to the simple Gospel of Salvation. He says it is because God kept reaching out to them, but they continued to be disobedient.

So, God left them and called a people who were His enemies (Gentiles). Paul admonishes that we keep this in mind so as not to become arrogant or boastful; as the very place wherein we stand by Grace, others more deserving were knocked off (or in Paul’s terms, plucked off).

May I never become boastful or arrogant. May I always heed the voice of God.

May I never take the patience and forbearance of God for granted.

In the height of my accomplishments, may my life proclaim one thing: “in Christ alone”.

May the Simple Gospel of Jesus Christ always be enough for me.

God is merciful

In His mercy, God didn’t completely cast off His chosen people.

It is as Isaiah foretold, "IF THE LORD OF HOSTS HAD NOT LEFT US SEED [future generations from which a believing remnant of Israelites came], WE WOULD HAVE BECOME LIKE SODOM, AND WOULD HAVE RESEMBLED GOMORRAH [totally rejected and destroyed]!"

Paul describes it this way:

For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable [for He does not withdraw what He has given, nor does He change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call].

This is hope. God has bowels of mercy that is unending.

When Paul pondered on these things, this is all he could say

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and decisions and how unfathomable and untraceable are His ways! For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, OR WHO HAS BEEN HIS COUNSELOR? Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT WOULD BE PAID BACK TO HIM? For from Him [all things originate] and through Him [all things live and exist] and to Him are all things [directed]. To Him be glory and honor forever! Amen.