Many people base their righteousness on their thoughts,
words and deeds. They are good people and they live an exemplary life with no
overt issues, which would alert them to their sinful nature. Yet, even these
model citizens must come to the place where their faith is based on what Jesus
did for us, rather than on their self-righteousness.
Even good people sin in their heart (Matthew
15:19; Ecclesiastes 7:20). The inclination of the human heart, even from
childhood, is to do evil (Genesis 8:21). Our spirit is dead at birth, and
we have only a body and soul by which to relate to this world. We innately know
that we are not complete; and we look to people, places and things to fill that
void. This futile exercise is continually unsuccessful.
We end up weary and some contemplate suicide. Many people
are too proud and self-righteous to call out to God for His salvation. Yet,
anyone who does is Born Again in his/her Spirit. Our only requirements are to
turn away from sin and to believe that Jesus died for us personally. Then, God
molds us into His temple and dwells within us by His Holy Spirit.
We cannot earn our spot in heaven or our access to God.
This requires perfection, and we all fall short of God's perfect glory (Romans
3:23). Only Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, could take the
punishment for our sins and give us the free gift of His righteousness in
exchange (Romans 6:23). God's Spirit then leads us into
all Truth and reminds us of His Word, which guides us throughout our lifetime (1
Corinthians 3:16; John 16:13, 14:26).
Prayer:
Father God, we are mere mortals and we are all born in
Adam's sin (Job 15:14). However, You fill us through our
entire being with all of Your fullness (Ephesians 3:19). Through
the power of Your Trinity within us, we live victoriously as we walk in Your
perfect plan for our life (1 Corinthians 15:57). Our
carnal, worldly friends, relatives, associates and neighbors may attempt to
draw us back into worldly pursuits; but as we focus on You, You keep us in Your
perfect peace and on Your straight and narrow road (Isaiah
26:3; Matthew 7:13-14). Thank You, that as we surrender our life
exclusively to You, we reap Your rewards (Matthew 5:12; Philippians 4:19).
Thought for the Day:
We find the fulfillment and completion we long for through
Christ in us, who is our only hope of a glorious life now and throughout
eternity. - Colossians 1:27, 2:10
