But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.
Romans 11:6
“Slow down child, you don’t have to work for love anymore.”
I have a real problem with doing this whole life thing sometimes. Maybe you can relate. I’m just going to be completely transparent here: I am often a complete control freak about my life. The second that I realize, “Oh! Duh! Silly me, God. I have finally realized that didn’t work and I will live my life better.”, this lasts for about 5 seconds and then it’s back to me trying to do everything on my own again.
This can turn into a really prideful thing. “I have finally realized” or “I will live my life better.” The thing I have discovered about myself is that even in my “revelations” I tend to still focus on ME.
You know what’s even worse? When I begin to see that my own plans fall apart (again), I start having thoughts that look like this:
I already asked for forgiveness and now I have to do it AGAIN?
I don’t have a problem, I already surrendered my idols. (Although I am fully aware of their undeniable presence)
This makes me look pathetic... maybe I am?
Somehow in my life, I developed this opinion that I should have one “big moment” of surrender and forgiveness and that’s all I need. In my pride, I want it to be a big deal and then I NEVER have problems again. I am redeemed once and that is my glorious moment and God and I will live happily ever after in this life.
The unfortunate truth is that’s just not going to happen. Not until this life is over, anyway. I’m still human. I’m still going to drift away or even run away. The important thing is that He never will.
The thing about surrender and forgiveness is that it’s a repetitive, daily experience.
It’s not a one time thing. Thankfully, Jesus understands that much better than I do.
This glorious relationship has nothing to do with me or how good I am at praying, following His will, resisting temptation, reading scripture, singing worship perfectly... the list goes on. This relationship has everything to do with God’s grace and glory radiant in my heart and life.
The incredible truth is this: I don’t have to work so hard. He’s already given what I can’t afford.
My inspiration for this blog post today comes from a song I found on my “Discover Weekly” Spotify playlist.
I don’t think you’ll fully understand my heart on this subject until you listen to this song, so if you made it this far in reading my post please listen and read the lyrics.
I literally relate to every single part of this song. Maybe you will, too.
“Effort” by James Spaite
I made an agreement with a demon that I couldn't write
And for the past six years I've cursed my life
He said I couldn't sing and I told him he was right
I gave him ears and listened to his lies
There's time things can be restored
This is wisdom: you will serve what you adore
I'm freely given what I can't afford
"Slow down child, you don't have to work for love
Anymore"
Blood as sweet as honey in exchange for bitter wine
From three nails it flows and gives me life
A little bag of money and I couldn't decline
I traded in love for a worthless lie
There's time things can be restored
This is wisdom: you will serve what you adore
I'm freely given what I can't afford
"Slow down child, you don't have to work for love
Anymore"
