We are incredibly valuable to God, but not because we bring anything of value to the relationship. We are tainted by sin, and it is only by His grace that we even keep our breath. The pride and arrogance in us sometimes causes us to think differently. We come to God with what we think are our “good deeds” or with our talents or abilities and present them as though He owes us. He does not. Some even consider their financial positions or their families stature should gain them something with God. Coming to God with such insanity and trusting in it even after you’ve been presented with the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the same as out rightly refusing His offer of Grace. We have nothing to offer… and yet once we embrace Him, we have everything to offer the world. Receiving Him requires two open and empty hands.
“Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, ‘Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?’ ‘Why do you ask me about what is good?’ Jesus replied. ‘There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments.’ ‘Which ones?’ the man inquired. Jesus replied, ‘”Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,” and “love your neighbor as yourself.” ‘All these I have kept,’ the young man said. ‘What do I still lack?’ Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’ When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.” Matthew 19:16-22
In Christ,
PastorJimKilby @Kilbin8er
Jim@JamesKilby.com