When we read Romans 1:18-20 in the Reina Valera 2009, we come across a deeply revealing passage. It says: *"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness; because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world, His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse."* This passage speaks of God's manifestation through creation and how humans, by observing the world around us, can perceive His power and divinity. But what does this mean for us as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? How can we apply these principles in our daily lives?
First, it’s important to understand that, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe that God is our Heavenly Father, a real and tangible being who knows and loves us. This belief aligns perfectly with what Paul teaches in Romans. He tells us that creation itself is a testimony of God's existence. When we look at the mountains, the oceans, the stars in the sky, or even the complexity of our own bodies, we can see the hand of a wise and loving Creator. In Doctrine and Covenants 88:45-47, we read: *"Have you not perceived how the earth rolls? Yes, and this bears testimony that there is a supreme God... And again, have you not perceived the power of God in all things?"* This passage reinforces the idea that creation is a constant testimony of God's existence and power.
But Romans 1:18-20 doesn’t just speak of God's existence; it also speaks of our responsibility as His children to recognize Him and live according to His principles. Paul mentions that those who reject this truth "are without excuse." This leads us to reflect on our own lives. Are we recognizing God's hand in everything around us? Are we living in a way that honors His creation and His commandments?
In the Book of Mormon, in Alma 30:44, we read: *"All things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator."* This verse reminds us that not only the earth, but the entire universe testifies of God's existence. As Latter-day Saints, we believe that God not only created the earth but is also the Creator of countless worlds. In Moses 1:33, we read: *"And worlds without number have I created... and by the Son I created them, which is mine Only Begotten."* This shows us the magnitude of God's power and invites us to marvel at His work.
However, Paul also warns about the wrath of God being revealed against ungodliness and unrighteousness. This leads us to consider the importance of living according to the principles of the gospel. In 2 Nephi 2:13, we read: *"And if there is no law given, there is no sin; and if there is no sin, there is no righteousness; and if there is no righteousness, there is no happiness."* This verse teaches us that God's commandments are not arbitrary restrictions but guidelines that help us live in harmony with His will and achieve true happiness.
When we live in ungodliness and unrighteousness, as Paul mentions, we are rejecting the truth that God has revealed to us. In Doctrine and Covenants 93:24, we read: *"And truth is knowledge of things as they are, as they were, and as they are to come."* Truth is not something abstract; it is the knowledge of reality as God knows it. When we reject this truth, we are distancing ourselves from the light and life that God offers.
But how can we ensure that we are living in the truth? In John 8:32, Jesus said: *"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."* As Latter-day Saints, we believe that truth is found in the teachings of Jesus Christ and in the modern revelations given through the prophets. In Doctrine and Covenants 1:38, we read: *"What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same."* This reminds us that the words of modern prophets are as important as the ancient scriptures, and we must pay attention to their teachings to live in the truth.
Additionally, Paul mentions that those who reject the truth "suppress the truth in unrighteousness." This leads us to think about the importance of not only believing in God but also acting according to that belief. In James 2:17, we read: *"Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."* As Latter-day Saints, we believe that faith and works go hand in hand. It’s not enough to believe in God; we must demonstrate our faith through our actions.
In the Book of Mormon, in Mosiah 2:17, we read: *"And behold, I tell you these things that you may learn wisdom; that you may learn that when you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service of your God."* This verse reminds us that serving others is a way to honor God and live according to His principles. When we help those in need, forgive those who have wronged us, and live with integrity, we are demonstrating our faith in God and recognizing His hand in our lives.
Finally, Romans 1:18-20 invites us to reflect on our relationship with God and His creation. As Latter-day Saints, we believe that we are children of God and that we have divine potential. In Doctrine and Covenants 18:10, we read: *"Remember, the worth of souls is great in the sight of God."* This verse reminds us that each of us is precious to God, and He desires that we reach our fullest potential.
In summary, Romans 1:18-20 teaches us that creation is a testimony of God's power and divinity, and that we have the responsibility to recognize Him and live according to His principles. As Latter-day Saints, we can strengthen our faith by observing God's hand in all things around us, by following the teachings of Jesus Christ and modern prophets, and by serving our fellow beings. In doing so, we not only honor God but also draw closer to Him and the eternal life He has promised us.
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I hope this blog has been helpful and inspires you to reflect on the importance of living according to the principles Paul teaches in Romans 1:18-20. If you have any other questions or need further information, feel free to ask. Have a wonderful day!
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