I ChooseSample

I Choose Love Over Law (Part 2)

My friend Lee was a relatively new follower of Christ when he came to see me, a bit dejected. “I’ve got to talk to you about something that’s really got me down,” he said. Looking at the floor, it took him several moments to say anything. “I’m still sinning,” he blurted in frustration. “I asked Jesus into my heart, and I really meant it, but I don’t think it worked because I’m still sinning!” And for added emphasis he tagged on, “Every day!”

Lee was genuinely upset. Like me, you’re probably thinking, Whoa there Lee—we all fail to live right all the time. We can all identify with Lee’s frustration with sinful habits. I certainly can. The sin might be something really obvious or something more subtle like selfishness, vanity, or excess.

But you probably didn’t need a reminder. Scripture calls our enemy “the accuser.” He’s constantly reminding us just how badly and how often we fail. Thankfully, we have God’s Word, and the Holy Spirit to help us fight back!

That day, Lee and I talked for a long time about law versus grace, and legalism versus love. Law accuses. Grace forgives. Legalism judges. Love saves. Satan hurts. The Holy Spirit heals. The key is to stay in tune with what the Spirit is doing in our spirits. Spiritual growth is not an event, activity, or even a goal.

It’s a lifelong process fueled by God’s love and our response. God knows this. Like Lee, we still mess up—every day—but God’s love is too big, and the Holy Spirit’s power is too great to give up now. Don’t let the accuser throw the law at you. Choose to let God’s love renew you daily.

Act: Try these two steps. 1. Tell a trusted friend about whatever accusation you’re facing, and ask for help. 2. Read today’s Scriptures and invite the Holy Spirit to give you a new realization of God’s healing love.

Kyle Panter, pharmacist and Life.Church volunteer