Hello ,
Human nature gravitates toward earning. We measure success by effort and believe righteousness works the same way. But Scripture cuts right through that illusion: “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6)...Not because our efforts are meaningless, but because sin contaminates even our best intentions.
Martin Luther, before the Reformation, exhausted himself trying to earn God’s favor — fasting, confessing, striving. Yet the more he tried, the heavier his guilt grew. Only when he discovered “the just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17) did he find peace. The righteousness we crave is not achieved; it’s received.
We don’t climb into God’s grace.
Grace comes down to us!
Have a great day and God bless!
Pastor Mike / The Open Word
