When the Signs Say Wrong Way
A bright detour sign at first light, mercy that turns me from a false road and sets me on the way with Jesus.
Devotional Credit: Immeasurably More by Ray Stedman
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Romans 3:19 to 20 reads like a mirror, not a mallet. The Law speaks to those under it, every mouth goes quiet, and the whole world stands accountable to God. No one is declared righteous by the works of the Law. Through the Law we become conscious of sin. That could sound like the end of the road, but Ray Stedman shows it as mercy. God is not looking to wipe us out. He is rescuing us from false hope.
I am grateful for how Stedman frames it. The Law stops our arguing so we can finally hear good news. It tells the truth about our lack of love so we can receive a righteousness we could never earn. It points away from self effort and toward Jesus, who loved us and gave Himself for us.
Three simple takeaways rise from his reflection. First, the Law closes our lips. It ends the endless “but I” and “what about” that try to defend our record. Second, the Law reminds us that we will all stand before God, so this matters today. Third, the Law defines love in action, and we admit how far short we come. Then grace steps in. God loved the world and sent His Son. Righteousness is given as a gift to those who trust Him.
So this is not about despair. It is about the end of pretending. When I let the Law say its piece, I quit leaning on me and lean into Jesus. The Spirit makes that shift possible. Life opens up when I live from union with Him and rest in the abiding life He gives.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I quiet the arguments so you can hear grace. I show you that your efforts cannot justify you, and I lead you to the One who justifies the ungodly. I loved the world and gave My Son. In Him there is no condemnation. I make you alive with Him. I cancel the record that stood against you. I clothe you in righteousness that is not your own, the righteousness that comes by faith.
I teach you to walk in love. I fulfill the just requirement of the Law in you as you walk by My Spirit. I write My ways on your heart. I renew your mind. I work in you to will and to act according to My good pleasure. I began this work, and I will complete it. When fear of judgment whispers, remember that you are in Jesus, and His life is your life.
I invite you to present yourself to Me today. Set your mind on things above. Keep in step with My leading. I will pour My love into your heart. I will guide your words with gentleness and truth. I will steady your steps.
Scripture references: Romans 3:19 to 20, John 3:16, Romans 4:5, Romans 8:1, Ephesians 2:4 to 9, Titus 3:5, Colossians 2:13 to 14, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 8:3 to 4, Galatians 5:16 to 25, Romans 12:1 to 2, Philippians 2:13, Philippians 1:6, Romans 5:5, Colossians 3:1 to 4, 1 John 4:18.
Real-Life Analogy
Think of your phone’s maps when you miss a turn. The app does not scold, it speaks up. Wrong road, then a calm reroute, and a clear next step. The Law works like the honest sign on the street, it tells you this lane does not reach your destination. The Holy Spirit is like the guide within, He takes you off the false road and sets a new path in Jesus, then He carries you along.
Try this today. When you notice yourself proving you are right or defending a mistake, pause and let the inner sign speak. Then turn to the Lord and say, Lord, I trust You to set my route and carry me on the true path in this moment. Step into the conversation with honesty and kindness, letting His life express patience and clear words through you.
Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You that Your Law ended my arguing and pointed me to Jesus. Thank You that righteousness is Your gift, given in Your Son, not earned by me. Thank You that the Spirit lives in me, renewing my mind, and fulfilling love in real life. I present this day to You with gratitude. Lord, I trust You to love through me and steer my steps today.