QUESTION 2 OF HC

by

KNOWING OUR NEED AND GOD’S GRACE

Scripture: Romans 3:23-24 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

Devotion:

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what it takes to truly live a happy and meaningful life? The Heidelberg Catechism gives us some deep insights into this through its second question.

QUESTION 2 asks: How many things are necessary for you to know, that in this comfort you may live and die happily?

The answer is threefold: First, the greatness of my sin and misery. Second, how I am redeemed from all my sins and misery. Third, how I am to be thankful to God for such redemption.

Let’s break this down:

  1. Recognizing Our Sin and Misery: It’s important to understand that we all mess up. We make mistakes, hurt others, and fall short of what God desires for us. Acknowledging this isn’t meant to make us feel bad, but to help us see our need for something greater.
  2. Understanding Redemption: The amazing part is that we don’t have to stay in our brokenness. Jesus came to redeem us, to save us from our sins and the misery they bring. Through His sacrifice, we are forgiven and given a new life. This is a gift of grace—something we don’t earn but receive freely.
  3. Living in Thankfulness: Knowing what Jesus has done for us should fill our hearts with gratitude. This gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a way of living. We show our thankfulness by loving God and others, by living in a way that reflects His love and grace.

So, whenever you feel overwhelmed by your mistakes or the challenges of life, remember these three things. You are loved, you are redeemed, and you have a purpose. Live each day in the light of this truth, and let it guide your actions and decisions.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank You for showing me my need for You and for providing a way through Jesus. Help me to live each day in gratitude for Your grace and to reflect Your love in all I do. Amen.

Feel free to reflect on this devotion and share it with others.!