There are essentially two ways to live: under law or under grace. Look at the list below and (now be honest) decide which describes your life.
I am living under law if:
- I despair of my failures or I’m proud of my success
- I focus on behavior rather than the heart – I need to look good
- If God is more of my judge than my Father
- I I feel condemned, not loved
- If when I give, I give as little as possible (not generous)
- I tend to be critical; always look for what is wrong
- I tend to despise the poor
- I am very opinionated – I need to be right
- I harbor grudges and refuse to forgive; I like to get even/revenge
- I don’t repent – rather, I make excuses, shift blame
- I am insecure – I need to impress people and protect myself from embarrassment
- I am defensive and demanding
- Those closest to me feel the law from me, not grace
I am living under grace if:
- I am neither despairing nor proud — Rather, I’m humble, but secure
- I am aware of the root sin motives that cause sinful behavior
- I see and experience God as my Father. I a treasured son/daughter – Jesus already has been judged for me
- I feel loved, not condemned
- I am becoming more generous – I love to give
- I am patient, and often more critical of my own ideas than those of others
- I don’t need to be right or look good
- I have compassion on the poor
- I am approachable and repentant
- I am glad and willing to forgive freely and fully
- I am gracious when others fail or disappoint me
- Those closest to me feel grace – they feel loved, appreciated
If you are like me and tend to live most of your life under law, how can we really live under grace and experience the life-changing influence and power of the gospel? It is possible. Find out this Sunday at Creekstone. 🙂