This message begins an exciting new series on the book of Romans. Today, we look at Romans 1:1-17 focusing on the source of Paul’s conviction regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 - Don’t you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way to win the prize. 25 Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable crown. 26 So I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. 27 Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

Ephesians 2:10 tells believers, we are God's workmanship. In this verse, the Greek word translated workmanship is where we get the English word "poem." Paul is telling his Ephesian readers and us, that we are God's poem! God uniquely created us to express His heart and love in this world. You and I are extremely valuable to God and He has a purpose for our lives.

Psalm 1:1-4 - How happy is the one who does not walk in the advice of the wicked or stand in the pathway with sinners or sit in the company of mockers! 2 Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted beside flowing streams that bears its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. 4 The wicked are not like this; instead, they are like chaff that the wind blows away.