We can all probably reach a consensus that life, even under grace, is challenging enough without having to deal with additional impossible-to-follow requirements thrown at us. Keeping the big picture in mind helps us maintain the proper perspective when we struggle with the inevitable issues that arise with annoying frequency. Life under the law was exhausting because righteousness depended on flawless behavior. Thankfully, that has all changed.
The law exposed guilt and left no room for error. Because of what Jesus did, righteousness is now revealed apart from the law and is available to everyone who believes in Jesus. This right-standing with God isn’t earned but received by faith.
Sin no longer has the upper hand because grace changed the rules. We’re not under the law’s demands; we’re under God’s favor. That means we can stop striving and start resting in what Jesus accomplished. His gift of righteousness empowers us to live victoriously, not condemned.
Abraham’s story reminds us that faith—not works—connects us to righteousness. He believed God, and that was enough. The same principle applies today: we don’t earn righteousness by performance. Grace makes it a gift, and gifts aren’t taken back when we stumble.
Staying on spiritual milk keeps us unskilled in righteousness and prevents us from moving on to the strong meat of the Gospel of Grace. Understanding this truth moves us from spiritual infancy to maturity. Growing in grace teaches us that our identity isn’t shaken by mistakes. A mature believer knows righteousness is secure because it’s rooted in Jesus, not in self-effort.
The almost-too-good-to-be-true news is that there’s no condemnation for those in Christ. Jesus demonstrated this when He refused to condemn the woman caught in adultery. That same grace speaks to us today, proclaiming that shame and guilt have no voice here. We walk free because God has said to us, “Neither do I condemn you.”
Scriptures:
Romans 3:21, 22
Romans 6:14
Genesis 15:6
Galatians 3:6
James 2:23
Hebrews 5:12, 13
Romans 8:1, NLT
John 8:10-11
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for making righteousness a gift and silencing condemnation. Help us grow in grace and live boldly in Your freedom every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.