we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 2.16a)
It is crippling to realize when we are powerless. Within ourselves, as incredibly fearfully and wonderfully made we are, there is no action, no amount of work, no good deed that can place destiny in our own trembling hands. Countless millions set out each day to redeem their own souls; good deeds buried underneath intentional desperation. Still millions others resolve themselves to eternal damnation because the weight of their sin has left them hopeless.
Even among the followers of Christ, we can fall prey to the draw of self-salvation. We subconsciously think there must be some deed we can perform to place power in our grasp. We sing songs of personal empowerment. We write tall tales of strong heroes. We build enduring statues, cast in iron, of men and women who personify strength. And yet we know deep within our souls that our works yield no justification; no observance of ancient law can purchase salvation.
Faith alone. And not misdirected faith in self, in reincarnation, in personal action, in faith itself. Only faith in the person of Jesus can we find justification. Jesus Christ is our Justifier. Our Lord and Savior whose self-sacrifice has become our eternal redemption. The cross is our altar where the perfect sacrifice took our crippled legs and lifted us to our restored feet. Fearfully and wonderfully made for relationship, body and soul. It is healing to realize we are powerless.
Jesus, I praise you for placing my life in your all powerful hands, justifying me from all sin!