Saturday, May 15, 2010

Shelly Says ~ "I Am Yours"

I believe legalism is a problem for many reasons and one that really stands out to me is ignorance.

Before I continue, please understand that there is a difference between stupidity and ignorance.

The ignorant legalist is unaware or has forgotten that nothing can save them but the blood of Christ. They think that good works are the key to salvation. Somehow, they have either misunderstood, forgotten or don't know that salvation is in Christ alone. They think or fall into the type of thinking that suggests the more committees they're on... the better their chances of getting into heaven one day. They think the ticket through the pearly gates comes when they are nice to other people or do good things for them.

I believe that we often get so wrapped up in life and in serving others that we lose sight of our true identity. It's a mistake that deeply affects our soul, body and spirit... our self as a whole.

You get to go to heaven because you accept Christ as your personal Lord and Saviour... period.

You will go to heaven because of who you are (a Child of God) not because of what you've done.

I hang on to the lyrics of one of my favorite Casting Crown songs, Who Am I?

Not because of who I am but because of what You've done.
Not because of what I've done but because of who You are.


* Remember that tomorrow starts our week of "unplugged" study. Check your e-mail for more details.


4 comments:

  1. Out of all the obstacles (unbelief, pride, idolatry, prayerlessness, and legalism), legalism has been the hardest boulder to move lately.

    I had gotten so wrapped up in serving others that I had lost sight of who I am. If you know anything about me, you know I'm a hard worker. There is nothing wrong with being a hardworker... unless you find your identity there.

    I often fall prey to the stonghold of work. And, yes, it can and does lead to captivity.

    Lucky for me, there is a Bible study called Breaking Free ; ) and I have caught it once again.

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  2. Great post Shelly. Too often the act of serving can become an unnecessary burden even a stronghold we should break free from! We serve because we want to show Christ's love actively - not FOR salvation but BECAUSE of our salvation.

    Thanks for sharing.

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  3. I received a devotional this morning that speaks so clearly to God taking pleasure in us and thus we enjoy His presence as a gift from Him. The website is www.purposedriven.com, go to devotions, May 15, God Smiles When We Use Our Abilities. I tied to copy and paste but I think the blog must not allow that because it would not let me do it.

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  4. Shiny Boxes, Thank you so much for your comment. I am so glad we connected! You are a joy in my life! p.s. I will hang onto your words... "serve because we want to show Christ's love actively - not FOR salvation but BECAUSE of our salvation."

    Jan, Thank you for sharing the devotional link. AWESOME words and a great reminder that we can serve God in every way... every day... because He made us to enjoy His creation and the abilities He gave us... even to wash dishes. : ) You are a gift to me!

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