Grace. That’s what the gospel is all about, which is why we call it “good news.” If it were about trying harder and doing better, it would be very bad news. The world has had that message for a really long time and never lived up to it. So why would we keep preaching that message to ourselves? Why are we so demanding of ourselves, so critical of every shortfall?
It’s far easier to apply the gospel of grace to others than to yourself, but do it anyway. Apply it to everyone you know, even your own heart. You were made for freedom, so refuse to hold yourself captive to an impossible standard. Aim for excellence, but release yourself from perfection. Jesus did not come for those who measure up. He came for those who fall short. You qualify. Accept the gift, live with grace, and apply the good news to yourself daily.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV).
