Throughout the book of Galatians, we have been reading about the liberty we have been given in Jesus Christ.  We are no longer chained to our fleshly desires.  He paid the price for our sins so that we are no longer guilty before a righteous, Holy God.  No condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus as Romans 8:1 declares.  Cloaked in the righteousness of Jesus Christ, we are proclaimed as joint heirs of His kingdom.   Should that alone not evoke a sense of Love, Liberty, and Joy.  Yet so often we march on trapped in guilt, shame, and struggles. Trying to do whatever it takes to march forward. Why is that?  Do we fail to truly grasp the magnificence of what we have been given?  Is it a lack of faith? What must we do to live life empowered.   

If you recall last week, we discussed Ishmael as the son of the flesh through the slave woman. And we contrasted that with Isaac, the son of promise through Sarah.  God also via His grace told Hagar that her son would also become the head of a great nation.  What I did not realize and found as an interesting point. The nation founded by Ishmael, was in the Wilderness of Paran. Mount Sinai, where the law was given, is in the Wilderness of Paran. The wife of Ishmael was Egyptian.   Note again the text: 

But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and he of the freewoman through promise, which things are symbolic.For these are the two covenants: the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar—for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all.   Galatians 4:23-26 NKJV 

How amazing is God with every detail being significant.  He truly is the Master Weaver. No Mistakes. 

Stand Fast in Liberty:  Live Life Empowered 

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing.  And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is  a debtor to keep the whole law.  You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt tobe justified by law; you have fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.  For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.   Galatians 5:1-6  NKJV 

As we reviewed last week.  Paul is not saying one loses his or her salvation.  However, as I too experienced, one loses that joy of their salvation if they believe work is necessary.  So, if we believe works is necessary for salvation; then, we become enslaved again to the law’s power to enslave.  Both emotionally and spiritually one places the chains once more, not allowing the Holy Spirit to be the power source.  Like placing a gasoline generator and disconnecting the electric power in the meantime.  A lot more work and less effective, only powering parts but not all.  So, circumcision or no circumcision is not what matters.  It is the heart of why and the power which you are relying on.  Yours or His.    

Why is False Doctrine so dangerous? 

 You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you. A little leaven leavens the whole lump. I have confidence in you, in the Lord, that you will have no other mind; but he who troubles you shall bear his judgment, whoever he is. Galations 5:7-10 NKJV 

Then as now, allowing the tweaking of the truth, cripples one’s ability to live life empowered.  A little switch here or there, what harm is it.  Well, a small pinch of yeast leavens all the bread.  Sin once allowed or just a little change in doctrine from the truth can lead to disastrous consequences.   

Why Did Paul Ask Timothy to be circumcised, but not Titus? 

Did you realize that in Acts 16: 3 Paul had suggested to Timothy to be circumcised.  This after the Jerusalem council in which it was determined not necessary, and Titus was not asked to be circumcised?   Well Timothy had a Jewish mother and a Greek Father.  Paul knew that it would be very difficult for Timothy to teach in the synagogue without being circumcised.  So, for the ease of ministry, Timothy was circumcised.  Not to “finalize his salvation”.  But to not cause offense to those Jews he was trying to witness to.  Perhaps not to offend his brothers.   

Did that confuse the situation or cause more confusion.  I do not know.  Think about it yourself.  It was like Paul doing the Nazarene vow to be accepted in the synagogue, when it was not necessary.  Or is it like me, wearing a dress with my friend that would be offended if I wore slacks? Paul did not confound circumcision the same as being circumcised because you believed you had to for your salvation.  Well, either way, I certainly cannot be one to throw any stones at anyone.  But it may help explain the next verses.   

And I, brethren, if I still preach circumcision, why do I still suffer persecution? Then the offense of the cross has ceased.   I could wish that those who trouble you would even cut themselves off!  Galatians 5:11-12 NKJV 

Live Life Empowered by Love, Liberty, and Joy 

Now that I have completely confused everything surrounding that issue, let’s get back on track. Study the word and come to some conclusions concerning all that.  What do you think when comparing it with scripture?  

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not useliberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, evenin this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!  Galatians 5:13-15 

Is this not what Jesus said?  

But when the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together.  Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying, “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’  This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’  On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”  Matthew 22:34-40 NKJV 

Sounds Great, but how Paul.  Jesus please, how do I do that when they drive me out of my mind sometimes?  I keep trying and failing.  Oh, did you hear that?  “I”.  Of course, I will fail.  

So, to live life empowered, I need to get out of the way? 

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.  But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.  Galatians 5:16-18 NKJV 

Do not have to step out of my room for great examples of this.  Flesh says, “Rest, you deserve it.  Just stay quiet. No one will notice.”  Spirit says, “Go downstairs and make certain Carolina has everything she needs.”    Flesh says, “Just stay home, no one will miss you at church today.”  Spirit says, “Get yourself ready to worship the Lord in His house of worship.”  Flesh says, “It won’t hurt if you miss reading His word today.  You need to rest.” Spirit says, “His word is a lamp unto your feet, don’t start the day without it.  You might stub your toes.” 

Get the drift.  There is usually a war going on and we must choose who we feed.  The one who gets the most nutrients wins.  

When we do not live life empowered 

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.  Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV 

Let’s see how many on this list might hit me any given day?  Outbursts of wrath? Well, if I stay hidden and no sees does that count?  Contentions?  How bad?  Jealousy, maybe for a moment, so does that count?  Selfish ambitions?  What if I make it really look like generosity.  Ok, not good.  But those who practice them not inheriting the kingdom are those who never recognize or fall under the repentance.  Ok then, what am I to look like? 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.  Galatians 5: 22-23 NKJV 

So, tell me again how do I live life empowered? 

And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.   Galatians 5:24-25 NKJV 

And even then, when it seems things are going well.  

Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:26 NJKV 

I Am in Christ, All I Was Not Alone 

Oh, Father dear, help me to know 

The truth of who I am  

In Christ, You did on me bestow 

All that I need down here below 

That by my life I then might show 

Your Spirits flame set bright Aglow 

By Jesus Christ, the precious lamb 

That You would take my wretched heart 

So, broken by my sin 

And through your Grace you did impart 

Your righteousness to ne’er depart 

Because in Christ, a brand-new start 

That as your child, your dear sweetheart 

Your spirit dwells within 

Endowing me with all Your power 

The same that rose Christ from the dead 

By Grace through faith, on me did shower 

The strength to stand firm like a tower 

And from life’s fears to never cower 

Because in Christ You did empower 

Me to walk wherever lead 

So as in Christ I lean into 

Abiding in His arms 

I come to know that which You knew 

My heart transformed by You 

It is You alone who’ll see me through 

Each day by grace my heart renew 

While learning of Your charms 

I am Your Blessed, Beloved Child 

Redeemed by Grace Alone 

You looked upon my heart so wild 

Who by this world had been beguiled! 

Upon this broken one you smiled 

With Patience, Mercy Oh so mild 

You chose me as Your own 

So, Help me Lord to comprehend 

The depth and breadth of love divine 

This broken heart, you chose to mend 

Before the world to then defend 

That I might find in You a friend 

Although, my Lord on knee I bend 

To give you all I thought was mine 

So, take my heart and use it Lord 

However, you desire 

That I might then with one accord 

Submit my will while marching toward 

Your presence as my one reward 

With truth my only sword 

Your Love my impassioned fire 

I am in Christ, all I was not 

Before He called my name 

For in my sin, I dare not rot 

As would have been the Devil’s plot 

For Christ did die, my freedom bought 

And then by grace my heart He sought 

How could I ever be the same? 

by Effie Darlene Barba

So, How do we live life empowered?

Surrender to the Holy Spirit, seek God’s word and never ever forget His presence, every moment of everyday. Quote scripture back to your own brain.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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How Can Anyone Remain Actually Free from the Law While Being Holy? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo by permission licensed by Goodsalt.com

As we continue in the book of Galatians. I want to consider our standing as presented by Paul in chapter 4.  Are we a child of God or slave of selfish, sinful needs. Slavery is clearly emphasized by the law as our true nature?  To fully consider our standing in chapter 4, I need to step back. Let’s look back into chapter 3 for a moment before moving forward.  That will make things clearer.  Last week we looked at the law having been given because of man’s continual sin. It was to highlight the truth of our sin nature.  That would obviously make our need for a Savior evident to each of us.   

The other thing we looked at was the covenant of God with Abraham, based on faith.  Indeed, there was a covenant with Adam that salvation and life would come through Eve’s seed.  All pointing to the fact that we could not save ourselves.  Hence, why an innocent lamb had to die to cover the sins of Adam and Eve.    Therefore, ever since sin entered the word, salvation has always been by faith.  It was never by the works of the law.  In fact, the law was not even presented until Moses was given it. This as he led God’s people out of slavery in Egypt.   

Sin existed.  Death existed.  And Salvation by faith existed.  We saw representations of that through Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Moses to only name a few.  Of course, there was also Job and Melchizedek the King of Salem, priest of the Most High God.   

So, Did the Law Always Exist? 

No. As stated above. The law was given to Moses about 2500 years after Adam and 1500 years before Christ’s birth on earth. Sin existed.  Death existed.  Look at what Paul wrote.   

What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made, and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator. Galations 3:19 (NKJV)  

Or in the amplified version: 

Why, then, the Law [what was its purpose]? It was added [after the promise to Abraham, to reveal to people their guilt] because of transgressions [that is, to make people conscious of the sinfulness of sin], and [the Law] was ordained through angels and delivered to Israel by the hand of a mediator [Moses, the mediator between God and Israel, to be in effect] until the Seed would come to whom the promise had been made.  Galatians 3:19 AMP 

Now note two very important things.  It was added.  Never did it replace the promises given by God through faith.  Righteousness was accounted to those who believed by faith in the promises of God. All of which pointed to a Savior.  To be a child of God. One would by faith believe in Him, knowing He was the only one who could provide life.  Secondly, it was added Until—meaning an ending date.   

Laws are regulations which point out that breaking them has consequences.  Speeding limits are posted, so there is a guideline for which violators can be aware of their charges.  Transgressions are punished with greater ease and understanding if listed.   We recognize our offense because it is written for us to see.

What about the Law today? 

 Also, note in the scripture above.  The law was given “till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made”.   

Theodore H. Epp explains this very clearly. 

“Sin was in the world before the Law came.  This means then that Law had a definite beginning.  It was added.  But what was it added to? Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the others who were saved in those bygone years were saved by grace the same as we are today.  Even during the Law period God always dealt with man in grace as far as salvation was concerned.  God has only had one method of salvation before the Law, during the Law or after the Law.  The gospel is good news to all, past, present and future.  But the Law was never good news It was bad news It was added to the good news but it did not take the place of grace.  Neither was it mixed with grace.  And it did not supplant grace. Grace was the good news, but, the law was not.   

The word translated “added” means to “to place alongside of.”  The Law being placed alongside of grace does not mean grace was removed. This is wonderful to see and yet is all important.  Grace was there so man could flee to it…. 

We learn from Galatians 3:19 that there was an end to the Law.  There was a time when it began but there was also a time element with regard to its conclusion.  It was given “till the seed should come to whom the promise was made.  The promise was the promise of grace.  The seed was Jesus Christ.^{1 _{1 Epp, Theodore H., Flesh & Spirit in Conflict, ©1968, Back to the Bible Broadcast, Lincoln, Nebraska, pages
97-98…101}}

The curtain to the Holy of Holies was torn when Christ died on the cross. No further sacrifices are needed.   

Child of God through Jesus Christ. 

Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father.  Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world.  But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law,  to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.  And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore, you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.  Galatians 4:1-7 NKJV 

Before I was saved, I was set aside as a child of God.  I was already an heir. However, until I accepted Christ as my Savior, I was still just as a slave. I stood guilty under the penalties of the law which represents God’s Righteousness. Sin is sin, an abomination against God, even if not written. Yet, the writing of it makes it obvious.   God knew I would be His child, but I did not yet carry the Holy Spirit in my body.  My adoption papers were sitting ready, just not yet executed.   

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly placesin Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will,to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.  Ephesians1:  3-6 NKJV 

Or look at Romans: 

For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover, whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.  Romans 8: 29-30 NKJV 

Therefore, until that day, I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior I was a slave. I was under the tutoring of the law leading me to understand I needed a Savior.  This even though I had been chosen for adoption by God as child. 

Transformed From Slave of Selfish, Sinful Needs and Desires to Child of God 

And we have such trust through Christ toward God.  Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God,  who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.  2 Corinthians 3:4-6 NKJV 

So, how is the New Covenant SOOO Glorious.  Think of this, when Moses went up the Mount to meet with God, His face glowed afterward.  The mountain covered with smoke, fire, and lightning.  Yet, unscathed, Moses went up and returned with the law written on stones.  Those watching saw this as glorious.

But if the ministry of death, written and engraved on stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of the glory of his countenance, which glory was passing away,  how will the ministry of the Spirit not be more glorious? For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. For even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels. For if what is passing away was glorious, what remains is much more glorious.  II Corinthians 3: 7-11 NKJV 

Note again the words “passing away” in the last sentence above.  The law was completely fulfilled by Jesus.  He said, “I have not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it, complete it, and reveal its purpose”.  Read Matthew 5 in which he explains the true heart of the law.  Some of this was veiled. Just as the face of Moses, who had to put a veil over his face. The people could not tolerate seeing the full reflective Glory of God.  But because of Christ, we come to God with unveiled faces.  

Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech—  unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away.  But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ. But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.  Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. II Corinthians 3: 12-18 NKJV 

As we gaze upon the face of our Savior. As we spend time alone with Him, we are being transformed into His image. We read His Word to know more of Him. Because of all this, by grace,  He is being reflected in us and through us.  Not by our own works, but by that of the Holy Spirit.  My transformation is little by little, one glory at a time.   One tiny glory to another tiny glory. One day I will look like Him. The Holy Spirit assures me I will. Whatever it takes, He will accomplish it.

We Are a Child of God, That Changes Everything 

No longer am I a slave of selfish, sinful needs and desires.  He is transforming me step by step.  Do I still fall prey to my pride and selfish desires?  Certainly, but so quickly I find myself on my knees to repent. More quickly today than yesterday.  Which brings me to grasping this truth in Romans.  

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.  For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God didby sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who liveaccording to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded isdeath, but to be spiritually minded islife and peace. Because the carnal mind isenmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:1-8 NKJV 

Because I know my carnal mind calls me sometimes, how do I know that I am a Child of God? Where is my certainty?  It is the Holy Spirit indwelling me that assures me.   

But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. And if Christ isin you, the body isdead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.  Romans 8:9-11 NKJV 

And because of that my heart’s desire is to please Him.  I do not want to do things that bring dishonor to His name.  My heart grieves when I sin.  Usually, it is something I have said more than what I do at this point. Example this week. I got so upset and frustrated. My steady prayer at that moment. “Lord, keep my mouth shut, please do not let me blurt out these thoughts, compounding the sin in my heart.” 

Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba,Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him,that we may also be glorified together.  Romans 8: 12-17 NKJV 

So How Can You Be Certain You Are a Child of God? 

But the righteousness of faith speaks in this way…. “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.  For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”  For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him.  For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:6,8-13 NKJV 

So, for anyone who does not know Him, today is the day of salvation, if only you would believe.  And for those who know Him as Lord and Savior.  Rest assured in the fact that you are a Chosen, Beloved Child of God. You are free from the penalties of the law.  It no longer holds you in its chains of guilt and shame.   Hold onto that liberty, secured in Jesus Christ.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Previous Posts

The Promises of God Triumph by Our Victory in Jesus How? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo by permission licensed by Goodsalt.com

Over the last two weeks, we have looked very seriously at Paul’s heartfelt concern for the churches in Galatia. They were being drawn to a false gospel by others.  It was a gospel that brought in works as the means of “maintaining their salvation.”  Salvation, however, is by Grace through faith and not of works.  It is based on the promises of God since Adam reconfirmed in the promises of God to Abraham.  Those Promises of God triumph only by our Victory in Jesus.   His redemptive work on the cross is what saves us.  And it is His substitutionary death on the cross, followed by His resurrection that wins us that victory.  Paul believed he had been so clear about that.  Yet the churches in Galatia had been bewitched by those who wanted to make it more about their humanistic ideas. And thereby less about Jesus.   

O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed among you as crucified? This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?  Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? Have you suffered so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain?  Galatians 3:1-4 NKJV 

If it was impossible to be saved by the works of the law. How can you believe that now you can keep the law perfectly in your human flesh?   Our only hope of righteousness is faith in the completed work of Christ.  First, for salvation and also, later for our sanctification.   We are sanctified (transformed into the likeness of our Lord and Savior) by the work of the Holy Spirit. Never is it by our own works.   

The Promises of God Triumph by Grace by faith 

Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Galatians 3:5 NKJV 

To further understand this, we need to recall where the Galatian churches are located.  And remember some of the miracles there as tehy were recorded in Acts 14.   

The Book of Acts records Paul’s travels through “south Galatia,” including the cities of Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe (Acts 13–16). Paul also visited Pergaand Attalia in the region of Pamphylia on the Mediterranean coast (Acts 13–14). Three recent archaeological discoveries suggest that these cities in Pamphylia were part of Galatia when Paul visited the region:¹ _{https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/new-testament/who-were-the-galatians-in-the-bible/  accessed 3/1/2026} 

Now it happened in Iconium that they went together to the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren.  Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.  But the multitude of the city was divided: part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles.  And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them, they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region.  And they were preaching the gospel there.  And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother’s womb, who had never walked. This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, “Stand up straight on your feet!” And he leaped and walked. Now when the people saw what Paul had done, they raised their voices, saying in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!”  And Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker.  Then the priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes.  Acts 14:1-13 NKJV 

So, here Paul and Barnabas were not only misrepresented by the Judaizers. But also the worshippers of Zeus. The people believed Paula and Barnabas to be the “gods” due to the miracles.  Talk about a tough crowd to preach to!  Yet Paul and Barnabas were not deterred.  Instead, they were appalled by their mistaken identity by the people. They continued to preach the gospel. Which is Our Victory in Jesus is by faith in Him.  The miracles were the work of the Holy Spirit in them, not their own works. Read on.    

But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude, crying out and saying, “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you, and preach to you that you should turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them,  who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.”  And with these sayings they could scarcely restrain the multitudes from sacrificing to them.  Acts 14:14-18 NKJV 

Paul exemplified that The Promises of God Triumph by Our Victory in Jesus 

Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead. However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. Acts 14:19-20 

Not only did Paul not die (though they thought he was dead). Rather, he went right back into the city the next morning where he had been stoned.  Covered with bruises no doubt, but alive and ready to stand for the gospel of Jesus Christ.   That kind of courage only the Holy Spirit can instill in someone.

And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.  And after they had passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.  Now when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed. Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.  So they stayed there a long time with the disciples.  Acts 14:21-28 NKJV 

Whose Power Makes the Promises of God Triumph?

God Himself! Instilled within the heart of the believer by faith in the Victory of Jesus.  He it is that supplies to Paul and every believer the power of the Holy Spirit to indwell each heart.  Not by works of our own hands, but by grace through faith.  That was even true for Abraham.  

Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? —just as Abraham “believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”  Therefore, know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham.  And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, “In you all the nations shall be blessed.” So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.  Galatians 3:6-9 NKJV 

If we come alongside “believing Abraham”, we have all the blessings of Abraham.  Our faith is counted to us for righteousness.  The fulfillment of Jesus’ birth through the lineage of Abraham was the fulfillment of this promise to Abraham.  Through him, all nations would be blessed.  By faith, Abraham believed and was willing to sacrifice His Only Son of promise. Isaac was the one through whom the Messiah would come. That had been made clear to Abraham.  Trusting that God would make a way Abraham walked on. He went to the top of the mountain prepared to do as God commanded.  How? He believed God would either provide a substitute or raise Isaac from the dead. What great faith he demonstrated.

Why by Grace alone?  

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for “the just shall live by faith.” Yet the law is not of faith, but “the man who does them shall live by them.” Galatians 3:10-12 NKJV 

So, what was the law for?  Remember that the law was not written or given to Abraham.  Instead, it was written many years later.  The covenant promises of God were given to Abraham.  The law came to be a constant reminder to the people that they could not fulfill the law.  Not by the outward letter of the law which is what many tried.  But even further away was the heart.  They could not keep the heart of the law and God judges the heart.  

The purpose of the law is to remind all of us that we are sinners in need of a Savior.  Too easily, without the law, we want to believe in humanistic ideologies. We want to say we are all somehow divine ourselves. Or that we are moving to become more like God within our own selves.  But the truth is the Promises of God Triumph only by Our Victory in Jesus. How? Through faith in His Redemptive work on our behalf.   

Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.  Galatians 3:13-14 NKJV 

So, what of the promises of God triumph by Our Victory in Jesus? 

All of them.  Listen to this argument by Paul.    

Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. Galatians 3:15 NKJV 

Covenants were legal, binding documents among men.  They could not be broken or changed.  So, let us continue.  

Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, “And to seeds,” as of many, but as of one, “And to your Seed,” who is Christ. And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect. For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.  Galatians 3:16-18 NKJV 

It was an unbreakable legal covenant Promise of God to Abraham. That supersedes the law which came 430 years later.  The Covenant Promises of God Triumph because they cannot be broken or prevented from being fulfilled.  Nothing stands in the way of Victory in Jesus through faith.  Certainly, not the law.   

So again, what was the Purpose of the Law? 

What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator does not mediate for one only, but God is one. Galatians 3:19-20 NKJV 

Our mediator is Jesus Christ.   

For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,  who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time I Timothy 2:5-6 NKJV 

Paul goes on to explain further.   

Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law.  But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.  But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. Galatians 3:21-25 NKJV 

Tutor? 

Particularly during Paul’s time, there was a tutor assigned to each son.  That tutor was responsible for ascertaining the child went to school. And then, once at school, the he behaved properly at school-fulfilling all they were assigned to.  The law acts as a tutor for humanity pointing us to Christ.  Once saved we do not need the tutor. Why? We now have the Holy Spirit to guide us in all we need to learn.   The law was replaced by the indwelling Holy Spirit who writes the law on our hearts.  

For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.  For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.  There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.  And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.  Galatians 3:26-29 NKJV 

Therefore, all the covenant promises of God triumph through our Victory in Jesus.  We are not made Jews, but our faith is counted to us as righteousness.  Our inheritance is that we are the children of the living God, who made us and saved us.  Joint heirs with Christ Jesus.  How Amazing is That! 

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DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. I urge you to seek Him today.

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How Does a Life in Jesus Really Bring Indescribable Joy? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo by permission licensed by Goodsalt.com

As we journey through this Pilgrim land, even as Christians, too often joy evades us. Perhaps in the same way it evades those who do not know Christ.  Yet I propose for different reasons.  Those who do not know Christ chase after other joys.  We who know Him find ourselves at time trapped by our own efforts of living out this life in Jesus.  Yet joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Joy should be ours, reflecting the life in Jesus we have been given.  So, why do we seem at times to be the most unjoyful of all?  Perhaps the same can be said of our living out this life of Christ we have so freely been given.   

I fear that too often we misunderstand the verse Paul wrote to the Philippians and fall trap to it.  

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Philippians 2:12  

Although saved by grace. We sometimes believe it now our duty to prove to the world and God He made a wonderful choice.  So with fear and trembling we try to prove our own worthiness.  But we become further frustrated with our own failures.  And sometimes just give up and say, “might as well sin, after all I can’t get it right”.  Then we fall away into our own depression.   Unfortunately, as you will see before today is over. We misinterpreted this message and we forgot to read the next verse. 

 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Philippians 2:13 

What Difference Does It Make? 

Precisely, that is what Paul wanted to convey to the churches in Galatia.  To live a life in Christ, is not to be fretting and worrying about “keeping the law”.  Oh, it does not mean that we just keep on sinning, ignoring Christ.  Rather, it is learning that the Holy Spirit indwells us. He is transforming us to live outwardly the life in Jesus that we have.  That is a life of freedom from the chains of the law which produce death in us.  Not that there is anything evil about the law.  The law is God’s perfect righteousness on display.  The problem is I cannot keep the law; therefore, my penalty is death.   

For even those, like the rich young ruler, who believes they can keep the letter of the law. They still cannot keep the heart of the law.  He broke the first commandment because he loved wealth and riches more than God.  Paul, having been among the chief of the Pharisees, knew this all too well.  But he said: 

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace, to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; Galatians 1:15-16 

Lightening Flash!  Literally!  Paul was transformed and saw the truth of the gospel of Christ. That is why he could say that God revealed His Son in himself.  Jesus dwelling now inside of Paul.  He now had life in Jesus.   

Dead to the law, Alive in Christ 

Paul was humbled by the wondrous grace that God chose him.  No longer any pride in his own knowledge of Old Testament scripture.  He was transformed. And He continued being transformed by the Holy Spirit in him. Why? To reveal the life of Jesus in him to the world around him.  This is why he knew the dangers of what the Judaizers were teaching.  It is the same danger taught in many churches today.  Anything that strays from the truth of the Gospel endangers the work of the church.  Many believe that they are saved because they go to church. Or because they live a decent life, and for the most part do good.  Meanwhile, the churches are content with letting this lie continue.  After all, they do tithe.  

Others blatantly teach that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.  Then, rather that teaching life in Christ, they teach we must work hard. We must change our own choices, and transform our lives to look like Christ.  But this is what Paul wrote to the Galatians. Precisely about his discussion with Peter and others. He called them out who would for the sake of the Jews change their tune when around the Jews.  

We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.  For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.  Galatians 2:15-18 

Or in other words as shown in the Amplified Version 

[I went on to say] “We are Jews by birth and not sinners from among the Gentiles; 16 yet we know that a man is not [e]justified [and placed in right standing with God] by works of the Law, but [only] through faith in [God’s beloved Son,] Christ Jesus. And even we [as Jews] have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law. By observing the Law no one will ever be justified [declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty]. 17 But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ [by faith], we ourselves are found to be sinners, does that make Christ an advocate or promoter of our sin? Certainly not! 18 For if I [or anyone else should] rebuild [through word or by practice] what I once tore down [the belief that observing the Law is essential for salvation], I prove myself to be a transgressor.  Galatians 2:15-18 AMP

But In a New Life in Jesus, We Are Dead to The Law. 

 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God  I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. Galatians 2:19-21 

Let’s look a little deeper here.  According to the law, I am sentenced to death.  There is no way around this.  Even though Paul once believed he was good.  He now knows he was spiritually dead.  No matter how righteous one might think themselves, without Jesus Christ they are spiritually dead.  At the judgment seat of the Supreme Judge, my sentence was death.   

However, God in His Unimaginable Grace, placed the penalty for my arrogant pride and sin upon His Son on the cross.  The moment, He called me to Himself, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ was accounted unto my account.  My price was paid.  The sentence of death that was mine Christ died.  My debt and sin crucified with Him that I might rise to life in Jesus.  He now resides in me and I need only “reckon my SELF crucified in Him.” as Paul wrote in Romans 6. 

 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.  For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.  For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.  For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Romans 6:6-14 

A New Life In Jesus 

That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in Him we live, and move, and have our being  Acts 17:27-28 

Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.  Romans 6:16-18 

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)  And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:  That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  Ephesians 2:4-10 

Whose workmanship, are we?   We are created IN Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  Who does the work?  How does He?  It is through grace.   

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.  II Corinthians 5: 14-21 

So, What About What Paul Wrote to The Philippians? 

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Philippians 2:12   

Now considering all that we just read and know.  Let us look once more at this verse.  

If we look at the Greek word that is translated “work out” in Strong’s Concordance, we find 

continue to work out
κατεργάζεσθε (katergazesthe)
Verb – Present Imperative Middle or Passive – 2nd Person Plural
Strong’s Greek 2716: From kata and ergazomai; to work fully, i.e. Accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion. _{https://biblehub.com/strongs/philippians/2-12.htm}

So, work out is not about performing by my strength. Rather it is to accomplish. Or to finish by allowing the power of Christ to demonstrate to the world my life in Jesus. The one I have inside of me by grace.

Why with fear and trembling?  In total tremulous awe and wonder of who Jesus Is and the amazing grace He has given me. I tremble at His Majesty! Furthermore, I stand in awe that the Creator of the Universe saw me, chose me, and loves me. How could I not tremble?   Why would I not fear disappointing Him who gave me so much! He thought I, who am nothing was so precious that He gave everything to call me His own. Is that not enough to cause me to tremble with love, devotion, awe, fear, and wonder in His presence? To think He saw me. He indwells me. My life in Jesus, what a wondrous thought.

I do not ever want to disappoint my Heavenly Father, so I want to spend each day seeking Him.  Dying to myself allowing Him to display to the world my life in Jesus.  That is my prayer today.   But knowing the truth that my salvation and my sanctification are by grace alone, I rest in His Joy. He will finish the work He began in me. On that promise, I rest assured. I turn to Him and smile. Sometimes my heart just leaps for joy thinking of Him. My life in Jesus brings me indescribable joy when I remember the truth of the Gospel.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

Previous Posts

Called by God Almighty and Jesus Messiah to Serve Holy Spirit Filled 

Deadly Spiritual Danger for a World Distorting the Truth of Jesus How?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS) 

The New Testament in Modern English by J.B Phillips copyright © 1960, 1972 J. B. Phillips. Administered by The Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England. Used by Permission. 

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.