Week 7 | Day 4
A Burden for the Lost
Romans 9:1-5
As Paul opens Romans 9–11, he lays bare his “great sorrow and unceasing anguish” over Israel’s unbelief—even though they were entrusted with adoption, glory, covenants, the Law, temple service, the promises, the patriarchs, and (wonder of wonders) the Messiah’s human lineage. He even says he could wish himself “accursed” if it meant their salvation. His grief reminds us that while God loves the world wanting no one to perish and all to come to repentance, He has a special place in His heart for the people of Israel. As a result, Paul truly yearned for their salvation and for them to fully realize that salvation is only available through Jesus—not heritage, rituals, or religious effort. His example shows us our role and responsibility to love, pray, and witness to everyone, everywhere because only God alone saves.
Application
1. Carry Christ’s Burden
Ask God to give you Paul’s heart for your family, friends, neighbors—and for the all people because He wants no one to perish and all to come to repentance.
2. Keep the Gospel Central
Privilege, tradition, and good works cannot save; only Jesus—who is “the only way, the only truth, and the only life” (see John 14:6). Share Him clearly and kindly.
3. Pray by Name
Make a short list of people who you know do not have to true relationship with God whether they are near or far from Him. Pray daily for open hearts, open doors, and the courage to speak with them as the opportunity arises.
4. Trust God’s Sovereign Plan and Timing
You can’t save anyone—this is the job of the Holy Spirit—but you can faithfully sow, water, and nurture under the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit’s job is to convict, convince, and convert—our job is to convey the message through our words and actions under the leading of the Spirit. Leave the miracle of new birth to God.
5. Check Your Heart
Repent of spiritual pride or indifference. Thank God yet again for the mercy you did not earn—and be ready and willing to give an account of the hope that is within you (see 1 Peter 3:15-16) extending His grace and truth to the best of these, the worst of these, and the least of these.
Ask God to give you Paul’s heart for your family, friends, neighbors—and for the all people because He wants no one to perish and all to come to repentance.
2. Keep the Gospel Central
Privilege, tradition, and good works cannot save; only Jesus—who is “the only way, the only truth, and the only life” (see John 14:6). Share Him clearly and kindly.
3. Pray by Name
Make a short list of people who you know do not have to true relationship with God whether they are near or far from Him. Pray daily for open hearts, open doors, and the courage to speak with them as the opportunity arises.
4. Trust God’s Sovereign Plan and Timing
You can’t save anyone—this is the job of the Holy Spirit—but you can faithfully sow, water, and nurture under the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit’s job is to convict, convince, and convert—our job is to convey the message through our words and actions under the leading of the Spirit. Leave the miracle of new birth to God.
5. Check Your Heart
Repent of spiritual pride or indifference. Thank God yet again for the mercy you did not earn—and be ready and willing to give an account of the hope that is within you (see 1 Peter 3:15-16) extending His grace and truth to the best of these, the worst of these, and the least of these.
Closing Prayer
Lord, in the spirit of Paul, burden my heart for the salvation of my family, friends, and neighbors. Help me care about the eternal destiny of everyone—the best, the worst, and the least. Forgive my misplaced piety and any indifference. I confess that no one, including me, deserves Your mercy. Give me compassion, boldness, and opportunities to point other people to Jesus—the only Savior. Allow me to play my part with tears, truth, and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.