Empowered by Christ: A Life Beyond Legalism
As believers, we often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and guilt, thinking that our worth as Christians is measured by our ability to follow a set of rules and regulations. But what if we told you that this mindset is far from the truth? The Bible reminds us that “I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13) and that “it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13).
The Struggle is Real
A dedicated nurse, working the night shift, shared her struggles with us. Despite her best efforts, she often found herself dozing off during morning Bible readings. She felt like a failure, wondering if she was a good Christian. Her concerns didn’t stop there. She worried about not witnessing enough, not praying enough, and not doing enough in the church. Sound familiar?
From Legalism to Liberty
We’ve become so focused on what we must do that we’ve turned Christianity into a religion – a set of dos and don’ts. But that’s not what it’s meant to be. Vital Christianity is about experiencing a new life in Christ, a new way of living. It’s about recognizing our weaknesses and surrendering to Him, allowing Jesus to live His life in us and through us. This isn’t about being lazy; it’s about being empowered by His strength.
Living by His Energy
As Paul wrote, “To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me” (Colossians 1:29). Notice whose energy it is – Jesus Christ’s energy. When we’re energized by Him, we can live a life of love and good works that honors God.
A Life of Freedom and Productivity
So, what does this mean for us? It means we can say, “Thank you, Jesus, that you are living in me, not just in theory, but in actual fact. Therefore, I have all the resources I need to live this day productively.” We’re no longer bound by our own limitations, but free to live a life that reflects His glory.
Embracing the New Life
By surrendering to Christ, we can experience a life of freedom, forgiveness, and peace – even in the midst of painful times. So, let’s shift our focus from what we must do to who we are in Christ. Let’s live a life that’s empowered by His strength, guided by His wisdom, and filled with His love.
Leave a Reply