The mom who expects her child rearing to be flawless – the dad who struggles to make a decent salary – the teen who tries to fit in – the grandma who has tried every wrinkle cream in the book – all have one thing in common. They are setting themselves up for failure.

The same thing can be said of our daily walk with Jesus. Our human nature tells us that we must be proactive in the process of our salvation, but God reminds us that there is nothing we can do to achieve it on our own. By trying to interfere in God’s good work in us, we are falling short of the mark.

He reminds us that our salvation is not dependent on our good works, but that it is a free gift to us – paid for by the death and resurrection of Jesus, Christ.

Our good works are simply a result of the work He has already done. We are so richly blessed by Him. His love is beyond our comprehension. He provides the answers to all of life’s problems and the means to overcome them.

Dear, Father, there are times when I think I can do it all by myself. It is times like that which require a wake-up call from you. Help me to depend on you in every aspect of my life. Teach me to be content in all circumstances and lead me in the way I should go. You are the Way, the Truth and the Light. Amen!