Along this journey of life, we place upon ourselves so many goals. Wanting to show our success at work, our family, our schoolwork, our finances, and in “who we are.” We press to be known, even if only in our own little circle. Striving always to reach the top. Wanting our identity to rise above the crowd. Even in our Christian walk, we work hard to prove our worthiness; boasting in even our sacrifices for Christ. All too often, in striving to prove our worthiness; we run to and from one area of service to another. Always afraid to slow down; because, deep within we fear someone might see our utter unworthiness. We hide the blemishes, the frailties, the fears, and the doubt. Yet, Paul tells us nothing matters; but, to Glory in the Cross of Christ. Laying aside our desire for self-glory, to glory in the Cross Alone.
“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world” (Galatians 6:14).
How do we do that? Certainly, it does not mean that we sit down and do nothing; but, it gets to the heart of the matter. Why am I doing or striving to achieve? What is my ultimate goal? Is it that I might be noticed? Or instead, recognizing my own frailty; is all that I do pointing toward the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ? Key to that, is Jesus Christ Lord of my life? Am I willing to surrender it all, that He might shine forth Gloriously? Does my heart truly say, “in Him I live, I breathe, I move, and I find my being” (Acts 17:28 paraphrased); while knowing, “without Him, I can do nothing” (John 15:5)?
Glory of the Cross Alone by Grace
Every gift that I have been given (my life, my family, my health and my accomplishments) are because of His Grace Alone purchased for me on the Cross by Jesus Christ. That also means, every trial, sorrow, and disappointment were gifts of Grace; that I might be drawn closer to Him, abiding and trusting in Him. If truly, I recognize that everything in my life comes to me is His Grace because of the cross, I die to self and to the world; so that, I might live with His Glory my greatest goal. When He is Lord, I awaken each morning eager to seek Him first. Knowing Him in all His Glory is my greatest goal, treasure, and joy in this life.
This begins when I fully recognize that I deserve nothing of His Grace. Yet, He loved me enough to give me Himself. Everything in life changes when we come to that realization. Instead of moaning for what I do not have, I praise Him for what He has given me. Have you praised Him today?
Philippians 3:7-10
But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
Let this be your decree and goal in life!
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?
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Latest Release
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Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned 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.
Footnotes and CREDITS
Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash