When Being Good Isn't Good Enough: 21 Days of GraceSample

Results vs. Relationship 

The reason so many Christians (maybe even you) are still bound by the law is because their focus is wrong. Let’s talk about it. 

First, we can lose our freedom by focusing on results rather than relationship. 

The nineteenth chapter of Acts records a wonderful story. God had used Paul in some miraculous ways; Paul had even cast out evil spirits from those who were oppressed. The seven sons of Sceva saw what happened and decided they would like to be as successful as Paul at exorcism. So they addressed an evil spirit, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches” (vs. 13). The evil spirit’s response would be humorous if it weren’t for the pathos of the situation. The evil spirit said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you” (vs. 15)? Luke then gives us a bit of detail: “Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded” (vs. 16). 

The sons of Sceva made a horrible mistake. They focused on the results and the methodology of Paul, rather than on the relationship Paul had with Jesus. We can do that too. 

In our presentation of the Gospel we often focus on what Jesus can do for us. Now don’t get me wrong. Jesus does a lot for us. He forgives us, reconciles us with God, gives us meaning, and eternal life. But the most important thing about Jesus is He gives us Himself. 

We have so emphasized the rewards of following Christ that we have forgotten that following Him, being with Him, knowing Him, and calling Him “Friend” and “Elder Brother” are far more wonderful and important than anything else. 

I have found a great way to enhance my prayer life. I have learned to use my imagination (no, I’m not into the New Age) as I pray for people I love. I used to just tell Jesus what I thought was the problem (as if He didn’t know) and enlist His help. Now, in my mind’s eye, I picture myself going and taking my friends by the hand up to where Jesus is standing—and then I get out of the way. I am amazed at how many people have told me that their situation changed after I prayed for them. 

That’s what we need to do.