The gospel isn't just a message to save sinners from the guilt of their sins, as some might think. The "good news" of Christ's righteous life, his atoning work on the cross, and his resurrection is a message that I, as a Christian, need to preach to myself everyday. Because though I have been freed from the penalty of my sins, I continue to battle its presence in my life. Even on a "good day," I do not love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, nor do I love my neighbor as myself. As C. J. Mahaney expresses it, each time I sin I contend for supremacy with God. I need a daily reminder that the only thing I really deserve is God's wrath, but Jesus bore that wrath in my place. God's justice was poured out on him as the only basis for forgiveness of sins...the thought is almost too much to bear. This reminder makes me grateful for his grace and mercy, and it also encourages me to deal with my sins by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. I am not left to myself; he convicts me of various sins, leads me to repentance, and helps me walk in obedience to the Lord. I am thankful I have the promise that "he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6)
No comments:
Post a Comment