“By nature, you are completely addicted to this legal method of salvation. Even after you become a Christian by believing the Gospel, your heart is still addicted to salvation by works. In your heart you still want to make the duties of the law come before the comforts of the Gospel…You find it hard to believe that you should get any blessing before you work for it….This is the mindset you tend to fall into: You sincerely do want to obey the laws of God. Therefore, to make sure you obey the law of God you make all of God’s blessings depend upon how well you keep his law. Some pastors tell you, you must diligently obey the law and that only when you have obeyed the law will you be safe and happy before God. Just keep in mind, however, that if you go this route, you will never enjoy your salvation for as long as you live in this world”
Walter Marshall (Adapted and Edited by Bruce McRae)
Oh Father, how often and how easy I fall into works righteousness, seeking your love and approval by doing good things. Show me how my good works are but filthy rags before you and how they are tainted with selfishness and pride. Teach me to live clothed in the righteousness of Christ, to enjoy my salvation and to obey your law not to gain your blessings but because I already have all your blessings in Christ!
No comments:
Post a Comment