Romans chapter 9 verses 30-32 (NIV)
What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone.
This is a reminder that we can’t earn our salvation or righteousness. We receive it by trusting in God and accepting the gift of salvation that Christ has given us.
I feel sad when I hear of, or see, people who rush around trying their best to earn God’s favour by doing things. Those in themselves will gain us nothing.
In Mark chapter 5 verse 36, Jesus told Jairus, whose daughter had just died, “do not be afraid, only believe.” Jairus was a well respected and loved Synagogue leader but there was nothing he could do to restore his daughter. The only thing he could do was trust Jesus. And he was not disappointed. So let’s take those words he heard and apply them to our own lives.
Dear Lord,
Thank You that everything we have in You is a gift by Your grace. It cannot be earned. Thank You for that grace. Amen.