Filthy Rags & Righteousness

So often I unconsciously feel like God owes me.
That somehow, or for some reason, I should be given a prize.
I'm a good kid.
I eat my vegetables.
I do my best to follow His commands.
I read my bible and pray.
How often I feel I'm doing God a favor or deserve praise for being good.
Sometimes I think of the things I've given up in order to follow God.
No drugs.
No drinking.
No sex before marriage.
The list goes on.
So often I come before God and remind Him of my obedience.
As if I deserve a reward for being good.
As if I'm suffering because I've given up these things.

Here's the reality check: God didn't give me His commands to make me miserable.
He didn't sit in heaven thinking of ways to make me unhappy.
The truth of the matter is this:
He made the earth, don't I believe that He knows how I can best live the life He's given me?
He made me.
He designed this world.
He created it.
I'm 100% sure He knows how to have the best, happiest life there is to live on earth.
He knows that true satisfaction doesn't come from drinking, being high, or sketchy boyfriends.
True satisfaction can only be found in the arms of Christ.
And on the flip side, my works are like filthy rags in comparison to His holiness.
Who am I to gripe about how "hard" it is for me to attempt to live a righteous life?
Did Jesus not come to this world and live one?
God didn't think up a bunch of ridiculous rules to purposefully spite me for following Him.
He truly desires my happiness and sanctification.
Happiness can only be found in the glorification of God.
Sometimes it isn't going to be easy - but these times remind us that this earth is not our home.
God works for the good of those who follow Him in all things. (Rom 8:28)

1 comment :

  1. Thanks. I really needed this! You are a blessing in my life. <3

    ReplyDelete