For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Romans 10:10 (NKJV)
Want more hope? Don’t focus on all the things you can’t do!
Can you imagine if a four-year-old pulled out the paints and her dad said, “You can’t even colour in the lines yet. What makes you think you can paint?”
A child who grows up being constantly reminded of what they are unable to do will head into the world hopeless and fearful. This is why legalistic religion is so awful; it keeps reminding us of what we’re doing wrong, so it destroys hope and joy. It causes people to give up because they feel they’ll never live up to the impossible standard of religion.
We need to get back to the Gospel—the GOOD news of Christ.
Today’s verse sums up the Gospel. It says we are made right with God by believing with our hearts and professing it with our mouths. Here’s the big take-away: it doesn’t say our performance is involved.
Don’t get me wrong. There’s a place for skill development and performance, but no amount of good behaviour can earn blessings from God. This new covenant is about trusting and relying on Jesus.
The Gospel is not about what you do; it’s about what Jesus did!
If you want more hope, if you want to live out the life you’re dreaming about, embrace the good news of the Gospel. Receive the love and acceptance God has for you, and Christ in you will empower you to change, grow and love this life He’s given you!