Walking in Faith

¹ Brethren, my heart’s desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. ² For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. ³ For not knowing about God’s righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. ⁴ For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.

Sound, simple, doctrine in these verses! Paul prays that people would subject themselves to God’s wisdom and commit themselves to Christ. Belief in Christ is the only way to righteousness.

I wonder — if you look around you today, how many people have a very real zeal for the Lord but do not have a good knowledge of the Lord? It seems to me that this is very much a common situation in today’s society. There are so many people that talk about the Lord, preach about the Lord and speak of the Lord’s greatness, yet they limit and confine His abilities. What I mean by this are those religions that define salvation through works or deeds. The Scripture is very clear on this point, yet it is so highly debated. I must have a different Bible than other people, but Paul makes this point as clear as day in this verse.

In order to be obedient to the Lord, one must submit themselves to Him. This means that a person must put aside their pride and live their life for Christ. Obviously, it is much easier to say than to do. I struggle with this constantly — especially in the workplace. What marks success in the work place (in many people’s job) does not necessarily tie to success in the Heavenly Father’s eyes. Which is more important? Is it important that you have earthly riches today or that you have heavenly riches forever? Seems pretty simple and straight forward when asked like that, yes?

Father, I know that you have a plan for me and that plan included coming to you through Jesus Christ. I thank you for helping me realize how lost I am and that Christ is the only way to salvation. I thank you for filling me with the Holy Spirit so that I may do good deeds here on this earth for you. Father, please remove my pride and my selfishness so that I can live my life for you. I pray this in Jesus most precious name, Amen.