“Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.” (Romans 4:4-5)
It is innate in human nature to seek to earn approval. From childhood, we seek to earn the approval of our parents. In our relationship with God, it is natural to assume that we must do something to earn His approval. Entire belief systems and religions are based on this premise: you can only gain approval from God by earning it yourself.
But how many sacrifices must you perform? How much penitence is sufficient? How many good things must you do? For after doing all that we can, we realize that none of these things can wipe away our sins before a Holy God. We all stand before Him as ungodly people, worthy of judgement.
But God, who is rich in mercy, provided for the justification of ungodly people through the sacrifice of His own Son on the cross. What we could not do for ourselves, God did for us, sending His Son to die for us.
God justifies the ungodly person who believes on Christ. In Him Alone, we stand righteous before God, approved and accepted. Rejoice today in the mercy of God and walk in faith with your eyes on Christ.
Take a moment to reflect:
- Do you honestly believe that you are fully accepted and approved by God in Christ Jesus?
- Give praise to the Lord for His grace in your life. Thank Him for the forgiveness of sin and for justifying you in Christ.
- Do you know someone who struggles to believe that he or she can be accepted by God? Pray for that person. Reach out to him or her today with a word of encouragement.
All for Jesus Until He Comes!
Steve Irvin - MentorLink 