BEYOND OUTWARD APPEARANCE


Scripture: Galatians 5:1-15

“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith - and this
is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that
no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

The Pharisees, during the days of Jesus, in an attempt to keep the Law, devised man-made laws. In doing this, they shifted focus from genuine transformation that comes from the heart. Their man-made laws spurred people to focus on showing compliance on the outside. If the profession of our faith does not come from a place of genuine change of heart, we make light the sacrifice of Jesus.


Paul reminds us that what matters is keeping God’s commandments through the leading of the Spirit. God’s grace recognizes our weakness and frailty and extends mercy to us. God’s grace does not give us what (judgment) we deserve but upholds us in God’s love. His grace does not condemn us even when we have wronged him. His grace looks beyond the physical to the heart where he desires sincere repentance and love for him.

Are you in love with God? It is not enough that you profess Christianity, you must live like one. Church attendance is beneficial, serving in a group or ministry work is worthwhile but this is not as important as feeding your relationship with God. It is your relationship with him, which no human individual can measure or track, that demonstrates your love for God. Do not take God’s amazing grace for granted. Reciprocate his love towards you with a sincere change of heart.

PRAYER: Lord, keep my heart conscious of the sacrifice you made on the cross. Let my heart grow daily in love towards you in Jesus name.

FAITH BYTE: I am transformed daily by the renewal of my mind. I do not take the grace of God for granted.

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