A Consistent Reflection Needed on my Part!

“My observation of Christendom is that most of us tend to base our relationship with God on our performance instead of on His grace.  If we’ve performed well—whatever ‘well’ is in our opinion—then we expect God to bless us.  If we haven’t done so well, our expectations are reduced accordingly.  In this sense, we live by works, rather than by grace.  We are saved by grace, but we are living by the ‘sweat’ of our own performance.  Moreover, we are always challenging ourselves and one another to ‘try harder’.  We seem to believe success in the Christian life is basically up to us; our commitment, our discipline, and our zeal, with some help from God along the way….The realization that my daily relationship with God is based on the infinite merit of Christ instead of on my own performance is very freeing and joyous experience.  But it is not meant to be a one-time experience; the truth needs to be reaffirmed daily.”  Jerry Bridges, “Transforming Grace”

Grace and More Grace

“You must know that Christ is the end of the law (Romans 10:4).  Therefore, diligently strive to know the commands of the law—but not so that you can gain your salvation by your own good works as you try to keep these commands.  Rather, know God’s commands so you will become aware of your inability to keep them…Once you are a Christian, you will continue to run to Christ for the strength to keep the law in your daily Christian life.” Walter Marshall (edited by Bruce McRae)

Grace Again

“While I regarded God as a tyrant I thought my sin a trifle; But when I knew Him to be my Father, then I mourned that I could ever have kicked against Him.  When I thought God was hard, I found it easy to sin; but when I found God so kind, so good, so overflowing with compassion, I smote upon my breast to think that I could ever have rebelled against One who loved me so, and sought my good.” C. Spurgeon