Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. Matthew 5:17 (NLT)
We’ve been discussing the topic of righteousness over the past few days—how believers are right with God because of what Jesus has done, not because of what they have done. Some would argue that if you believe you are righteous, you believe God’s laws are useless. After all, why follow His ways if He’s going to love you anyway?
Actually, obeying God’s laws and principles serves a different purpose. While obedience doesn’t earn you salvation or forgiveness, it does help you to live a great life. Following God’s commands is the best way to live, but Jesus is the only one who makes you right with God.
You began your relationship with Christ through faith-righteousness—through believing—and believing is what keeps you in right standing with God. Don’t move into works-righteousness, thinking you have to earn it.
None of us can be right with God through our own works. Trust that you’re right with God because of Jesus, and then thank Him for the power and ability He has provided you. This ability, called grace, can rise up in your life to break habits and win over temptation. You’ll begin to experience His joy, even when you have no reason to be joyful—and His peace, even when you have no reason to be peaceful.
God’s principles are beautiful. They create a foundation for great families and countries, but they don’t make you right with God. Trust in the fact that Jesus made you right with God instead and, just as Jesus said, “All things are possible to him who believes” (Mark 9:23, NKJV).