Names of God: Through Thanksgiving & Christmasنموونە

Paul explains to the church of the region Galatia that once they have surrendered their lives to Christ, they live by His grace. They no longer have to follow the religious laws in order to achieve God’s righteousness.  

The religious laws revealed our need for a Savior because no man other than Jesus could follow them completely and fully. Now that we have a Savior who has freed us from the bondage of the law, we are to live by faith in Him. We no longer have to earn our righteousness. We must trust that Jesus Christ has done all the work for us on our behalf.  When we doubt what Jesus has done for us, then His death was in vain. Our lives are the product of Jesus’ great sacrifice and His great love for us. Therefore, our lives, our work, and our service to Him should overflow with His great love that fills us and with gratitude for His sacrifice.  

Does your life reflect overwhelming love, joy, and gratitude from Jesus Christ’s work on the cross?  Are you struggling with completely accepting God’s grace and forgiveness through Jesus Christ?    

Father God, You are the author and finisher of my faith. Lord, help me to accept what Jesus has done on the Cross on my behalf without hesitation and without reservation.  When I find myself creating a spiritual checklist to earn Your approval or to cover up guilt or shame, remind me what Jesus has done on the Cross on my behalf.  In Him, I have been approved and have no guilt or shame. When I find myself using willpower to follow religious rules to remain in right standing with You, remind me what Jesus has done on the Cross on my behalf. In Him, my salvation is secure, my righteousness is sealed, and Your love is everlasting. Lord, fill my heart with the love, joy, and gratitude that comes with knowing that I am loved so deeply by You.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.