I MUST KNOW THE BAD NEWS TO APPRECIATE THE GOOD

Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20-21

Who feels ecstatic over being forgiven?  The one who knows how deeply he has sinned and offended God.  Who embraces salvation with his whole heart?  The one who despairs of being condemned with no way out.  The person who doesn’t feel any ‘need’ makes a lukewarm Christian.

Paul really wants me to understand this!  Everyone born after Adam was born in sin.  But, when the law was given and came alongside to offer a parallel look in the mirror, the awareness of sin increased.  The light came on and the bad news of our sinful condition ushered in feelings of hopelessness.

Utter hopelessness was God’s plan because unless I see how sinful I am, I won’t search for grace.  God has as much forgiveness, as much grace, as I need.  But if I don’t see how badly I need it, I won’t ask for much nor appreciate it when I get it.

Can I write a song today about God’s abounding grace?  Does the mere subject of it begin to stir my heart and bring me to tears?  It should.  My perceived need of it determines how much, or how little, I value Christ.

Jesus called the Pharisees ‘vipers’ not only because they were spiritually blind but because they thought they had ‘no need’.  They took issue with everything He said.  “That’s not true!”  “You are of the devil.”  “We’re not sinners.  We don’t need You.” As long as outrage and defensiveness reigned in their heart, Christ had no value to them.

I am to live with the cross ever at my side.  It is not for salvation only but for the daily transformation of my sinful nature.  One of the most important prayers I can pray daily is this ~ “Show me who I am today and how much I need You.” My need of Him will ever be in my peripheral view.

Lord, I think I get it.  I can afford to need You because You have more than I need in response. Your radical grace is always near.  Thank you.  Amen