Worthy of Belonging | Lent Devotional Day 8

Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ Death
February 25, 2026 
Written by: Charity Goodwin

Worthy of Belonging

Scripture:

Romans 8:1 So now there isn’t any condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death. 3 God has done what was impossible for the Law, since it was weak because of selfishness. God condemned sin in the body by sending his own Son to deal with sin in the same body as humans, who are controlled by sin. 4 He did this so that the righteous requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us. Now the way we live is based on the Spirit, not based on selfishness.
Romans 8:1–4

Reflection:

“You were born worthy of love and belonging” - Brene Brown

“There is therefore now no condemnation…(Romans 8:1)” is not denial of accountability; it’s the announcement of a new verdict. Penal substitution says Christ has taken what stands against us so we can stand before God without fear.

This concept matters emotionally: shame trains us to hide, perform, or numb. The gospel trains us to come into the light. If condemnation is the voice that says, “You are unsafe, unlovable, done,” then the cross is God’s answer: “You are mine, you are wanted, you are not beyond reach.”

Prayer:

Jesus, I desire to exchange my shame for your love.I want to say more but that alone is a mouthful and I’ll leave it at that. Please make it so. Amen. 

Reflection Question:

What is one “condemnation sentence” you rehearse internally and what would it sound like to replace it with Romans 8:1?

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