There is a
fine line between attaining and obtaining. We achieve a goal either by
attaining it through hard work or by obtaining possession of it through no
effort of our own (Hebrew 4:10).
For years I strove to keep all of God's
commandments to the letter of the law. I wanted to please God and pay Him back
for His sacrifice on the cross. I tried to attain Salvation by my own efforts
(Ephesians 2:8-9).
Most
religions require their followers to attain paradise through an uphill struggle
throughout life. Christianity is just the opposite, however. I heard it said,
“Christianity is the only religion where God came down to man.”
We are
actually encouraged to cease from all striving as God did from His work on the
seventh day. We trust God's wisdom and grace as He works in us to achieve the
results, from the work, which He lead us to accomplish.
When Christ takes possession of our spirit, He gives us His rest for
our soul – our mind, will and emotions. His righteousness, peace and joy give
us a new life, which replaces our life of worry and deprivation (Romans 14:17).
We no longer seek to sanctify our self by crucifying our flesh or by
our works for God (Galatians 3:1-3), but we accept the work of Christ on the
cross for us, which gives us eternal salvation simply by our relationship with
Him (John 17:3).
Prayer:
Father God, You provide all of our needs according to Your glorious
riches (Philippians 4:19). We live in ceaseless wonder at the sacrifice You
made for us and at the heavenly home, which You provide for us, as we abide in You
forevermore (Psalm 16:11).
By faith, we accept Your sacrifice on our behalf (Hebrews 7:22), and we
submit to Your Spirit as You crucify the deeds of our flesh (Romans 15:16). We enter into Your rest and
obtain Your righteousness as a free gift (Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23). We love
You above all and give You all of the praise and glory due to Your name.
Thought for
the Day:
e stop striving and obtain the
gifts, which God has for us when we follow His lead each moment of the day.
