Here I go again on my own

That song is just running through my head.

But you see, the thing is, I'm not really alone. And I can't do very much alone, even if I think I can.

In Sunday School this past week we were discussing free will versus free choice.

It was complicated.

But mostly I was reminded, I can't do it in my own strength.

I can't be a good enough employee, mom, wife, friend, volunteer, Christian, exerciser, nutritionist, blogger, none of it!

Far too often I forget this. I think of all the things I should/could improve on and it overwhelms me.

I was also reminded that even if I'm a great employee, mom, wife, friend, volunteer, Christian, exerciser, nutritionist, blogger etc., it matters NOTHING. Because my righteousness is as filthy rags. Only the work of the cross matters.

Does God command me to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him? Yes he does!
But that is not what gives me salvation. It is the work of Christ. If it had anything to do with my filthy self, it would be tainted.

Our conversation had me questioning why we do certain things- like preach the Gospel to others, or help our fellow man, or honor our parents, or live with integrity. If salvation has nothing to do with my will and everything to do with Christ's work, why try? Because God's inspired word says to. But I could preach til I turn blue, help as much as Mother Teresa, do everything my parents ever wanted, and never sin, and if Christ had not quickened my dead spirit-man through salvation, I would die and spend eternity in hell.

John 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

Eph. 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
 
Just let it sink in how much you are dependent on Him.