Devotion #1: Born Losers
As we examine the Romans Road, we begin with the concept of total depravity. It is the idea that human beings are born lost, broken, and inherently sinful. We possess no inherent goodness. In theological terms, this means we are born with a sinful nature, a disposition opposed to the things of God. Romans 5:12 explains, “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.” Through Adam’s sin, we had death, destruction, and a sinful nature enter the world.
This concept can be challenging to accept. You might think, “But I know good and kind people. Are you saying they are depraved if they are not saved?” Yes, and Romans 3:10-11 makes this clear: “As it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.’”
As a parent, I have witnessed this firsthand. I have three children, and while I am not naturally drawn to the baby stage, I enjoy them more once they are potty-trained and able to communicate. However, even as toddlers, their selfish tendencies were unmistakable. I did not have to teach them to throw tantrums or yell, “Mine!” It is astonishing to see those selfish desires emerge so naturally, but that is precisely what depravity describes. They, and all of us, are hardwired in opposition to God. Romans 3:18 sheds light on this: “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”
The sad reality is that sin has left all people lost in darkness and without hope. There is no goodness in us apart from God. Yet, through the sacrifice of Jesus, we can find light and hope. I love the timeless statement, “There is no good in me without the God in me.” When you become a Christian, the Holy Spirit comes to live within you, providing a compass that directs and guides you toward the things of God.
We have all seen the darkness of the world. Whether it is on television or social media, depravity is evident everywhere. Thankfully, God, Who is rich in mercy, did not leave us in that darkness. Instead, He offered us salvation. It is an opportunity to be rescued from sin and its consequences.