Imagine standing on the edge of a great ocean carrying a very large backpack full of rocks. Each rock represents a rule, a regulation, or a good deed you have done to merit a place in this world. The weight is overwhelming, and the ocean waves seem to be taunting you, saying, "You'll never be good enough."
Now, this is the weight of legalism.
This was a weight Ruth-a young Christian-bore quite heavily. She had come to believe that if she could only attend every church service, volunteer for every outreach program, and keep every biblical commandment, God would love her more. Through her good works, she would be saved from her struggles with sin.
But the more she worked to earn God's favor, the more exhausted and defeated she felt.
One day, as she read from Romans 3:20, it finally hit her: "For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight."
She had realized that her futile efforts to try to save herself were as impossible as holding water in her hands.
She let go of the heavy backpack and swam in an ocean of God's grace. She found that faith in Christ Jesus, and not her works, was the only lifeline that could save her.
As she looked into the ocean, Ruth saw her reflection, and it was no longer distorted by the weight of legalism. She saw a child of God, loved and accepted not because of what she had done, but because of what Christ had done.
The Bible reminds us:
Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works."
Galatians 2:16: "We know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ."
Romans 3:24-25: "And are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus."
A Gentle Reminder:
Don't carry the weight of legalism. Your good deeds will not save you. Your 'conservative' rules will not redeem you. Your efforts won't earn God's love.
Let go of the lie that your works will save you. Cling to the truth that it's faith in Christ Jesus who sets you free.
You are:
Loved-not for what you're doing,
Saved-not by trying,
Justified-solely through faith in Christ
So Rest in His grace; let the ocean of God's love carry you.
Have a great weekend
Love,
Fayvourebirth.