I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20
We are sinners by nature and by choice. Romans 3:23 says all of us “have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:10 says, “There is none righteous, no not one.” When we are saved by putting our trust in the living Lord Jesus who died for us on the Cross, we do not become perfect.
We live in a world that is works– or performance-oriented. Our success is determined by what we do and how well we do it. That is why we see so many people who are trying so desperately to work their way to heaven. Not matter how hard we try, however, we cannot do it in our own strength. Galatians 2:20 is very clear. The only chance we have to deal with our sin is through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We’ll never make progress on our sin problems as long as we try to handle it ourselves.
Today’s scripture makes it clear that we cannot live in our own strength; we must live by faith in the Son of God. The world tries to make it on our own, but that is simply not possible. This is why it is so important that we confess our sin daily. It is a reminder that Jesus has paid the price for our sin and we have victory through our relationship with the One who gave Himself for us.
Temptation will always be there, but we can live with confidence because Christ is living in the life of the believer. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Transformation is a lifelong process that takes place when Christ is living in us. *
Lord, I am continually amazed at Your love and Your grace. Why You would send Your Son to save a sinner like me is far beyond my understanding. I am so grateful that I do not have to do this alone, but can know joy and contentment because Christ lives in me. I know it is not because of anything I have done. May my life today reflect my dependence on You. Amen.
*Mike Hamlet, Spartanburg, SC