Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by the works of the law. For they stumbled at the stumbling stone. Romans 9:32
Being able to accomplish something of value is the desire for most people. Working hard gives a person the feeling that they were able to do something on their own that was good. This becomes even more valuable to a person when it was done on their own without the help of others. It boosts one’s own personal moral and self-abilities, putting one’s own self in control.
Paul, in speaking about some of the Israelites, said they did not seek righteousness by faith, but by works of the law because they had stumbled over Jesus, the stumbling stone.
Pride makes a person want to be able to do things on their own, without help from anyone else. It shows others that one can do what is needed without help. Then a feeling of being better than others rises up in the heart and mind.
The world is always trying to tell people that they can do it, that they can make it on their own and don’t need the help of anyone else.
Many in the church tend to feel and act the same way. They strive to follow all of the commands of God to look good to God and deserve to be saved or earn their way into heaven. There is no faith being used when working this way. It is all about self.
As they live this way, they stumble over Jesus. He is against working for salvation. Everything Jesus did was about faith, faith in God for everything needed.
Rather than working for salvation and righteousness, believers are to have faith in what Jesus did and receive the righteousness He provides.
Working hard is a good characteristic for you to have. However, when it comes to your salvation, working hard goes against it. You cannot earn your salvation, no matter how hard you try. It is completely by faith in Jesus and accepting what He has already done for you and provided for you. Trust what He has done, then work out of love for what He has done for you and given you. Do not allow what Jesus has done become a stumbling block for you, but believe you are forgiven, accepted and saved by the blood of Jesus.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that you will know you are saved only by the work of Jesus; that you will not try to work to earn your salvation; and that you will never stumble over what Jesus has done for you.
Photo by Alexas_Fotos on Unsplash
Leave a Reply