Psalm 103:12-13
"As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father loves and pities his children, so the Lord loves and pities those who fear him."
Why do we put such pressure on ourselves?
God would never put a lot of pressure on us. In fact, he removes all that makes us unrighteous and sends it as far away as the east is from the west. Just think a moment in miles the width of it all!
When my son was younger, he wanted to do something wonderful for me for Mother's Day. He looked through a favorite Gourmet magazine we used to cook together on weekends, and planned a unique, delicious feast for breakfast. I was told to go to bed and relax while my fare was prepared and cooked. Before I knew it, he brought the meal of fresh eggs, bacon, and French toast to my bedside and sat happily while I indulged. When I was through, I grabbed the plate to put in the kitchen, explaining the delight I felt of how wonderful it was. But, when I got to the kitchen I noticed the mess from event. I looked with love, and waited until he went to play with a friend to clean off the counters and restock the shelves. God does the same for us.
God is aware of our imperfections, yet he receives what we do out of love for him. He cleans up our messes and even works good out of them for us. That's because he loves us so much. He sees our faith in him and through it considers us to be with him "in Christ."
If God asks, "Why should I let you into heaven?" the only right answer is, "Because I'm in Christ. If God asks, "Why should I answer your prayers?" the right answer is, "Because I'm in Christ." If God asks, "Why should I help you?" the only answer is, "Because I'm in Christ."
Jesus wants us to come fearlessly, confidently, and boldly to the Father to receive mercy for our failures and grace for every need we have. He understands our weaknesses and faults. He understands that we are not going to manifest perfection every day. But we can ask God to forgive us for the mistakes we make, and then go boldly before the throne to ask God to meet our needs.
This Week's Meditation:
Teach me to "be in Christ."
Pray:
Help me to meditate each day: "Lord, let me not put pressure on myself."
Teach me to be patient and know you will mentor me. Remind me that prayer motivates me.
Meditate on this for several minutes a day. Allow various thoughts to come into your mind. And realize God has you in his arms always.