Week 3 | Day 2 – RIGHTEOUSNESS COMES BY FAITH ALONE – Romans 3:21–27

Paul’s words in this passage are a turning point in his letter to the Romans. For two chapters he has been building the case that everyone—Jew and Gentile alike—has fallen short of God’s perfect standard. No amount of law-keeping or moral effort can make us righteous in His sight. Then comes the glorious phrase: “But now…” In those two words, the weight of despair begins to lift. Paul announces that God’s righteousness has been revealed apart from the law. This righteousness doesn’t come from human striving but through faith in Jesus Christ, who became the sacrifice of atonement by shedding His blood for us. At the cross, God demonstrated both His perfect justice (sin must be punished) and His boundless mercy (He Himself pays the price for our sin).

For us today, this is more than theology—it’s our hope. We don’t have to strive endlessly, hoping our good deeds will somehow outweigh our failures. Paul says, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace.” That word freely reminds us that salvation is a gift, not a wage we earn. Faith is the open hand that receives it. And because it’s God’s work from start to finish, there’s no room for boasting. Our response is not pride, but gratitude and surrender.

APPLICATION

1 - Rely on Grace, Not Works

We can’t earn God’s favor; righteousness comes only through faith in Christ.
 
2 - Humble Yourself

Since salvation is a gift, there’s no room for pride—only gratitude.
 
3 - Trust the Cross

Jesus’ sacrifice shows God is both just and merciful; our hope rests in Him alone.
 
4 - Share the Gift

The Gospel is for everyone; extend God’s grace to those around you.

PRAYER

Father, thank You for the gift of righteousness through Jesus Christ. I confess that on my own, I fall short of Your glory and cannot make myself right with You. But You, in Your mercy, provided a way through the cross. Help me to live each day in the freedom of grace, not trying to earn Your love but resting in it. May my life be a testimony of Your justice and mercy so that others may see Christ in me and be drawn to Him. Amen.