While we were still sinners

 Read: Romans 5:1-11 (NLT)

"When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners." Romans 5:6

Leviticus pointed ahead. Every animal, every drop of blood, every Day of Atonement was a picture. Jesus is the real thing. He is the sacrifice that never needs to be made again.

Look at the timing. Jesus did not die for us after we cleaned up. He died while we were still sinners. Not once we were good. Not halfway there. Still sinners.

This is how God shows love. People might die for a good person. God's Son died for people who were against him. Love like that is not earned. It can only be received.

What we learn:

• God: His love does not depend on us. It came first and it came at a cost.
• People: We were helpless. We still are, without him.
• Circumstances: Jesus came "at just the right time." God's timing was perfect.

Heart questions:

1. Do you feel loved by God most when you do well? Why?
2. What changes inside you when you hear "while we were still sinners"?
3. Where are you still trying to earn love that God already gave?

Pray: God, you loved me at my worst. I did not earn it and I cannot lose it by having a bad day. Help me believe that deep down, not just in my head. Amen.