Read Romans 10:5-15

Drawing a distinction between the works of the law and faith, Paul proclaims:  “if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (v. 9).  In vv. 5-8, what contrast does Paul make between righteousness of the law and righteousness of faith? What similarities do you find between Deuteronomy 30:11-14 and vv. 6-8? What is the point of these verses? What comfort would vv. 8-11 give to a Christian who wonders if his or her faith is firm and strong enough to connect with God? How do the questions Paul asks in vv. 14-15 challenge you?

Prayer for the week

God of awe, from whom we flee in holy terror:  your silence burns like ice; your whisper cuts through fear; we long to hear your faithful word of righteousness and peace.  Bless us with bold believe even in the darkness of the night and the assault of life’s storms, that we may be messengers of your justice, in the name of the One whom wind and wave obey.  Amen.