Lost and Finding Joy

I’ve always considered myself as a pretty good person. I’ve learned most people feel this way, because when you see people interviewed after being caught stealing or even murdering someone, most of them will say the same thing, “…but, I’m a good person.” Those are pretty extreme examples, but we don’t have to be thieves or murderers to feel guilt or shame. We might feel guilty for getting frustrated, or wrongly accusing someone, or walking past someone who may have needed a helping hand or an encouraging word. Sometimes we feel inadequate, because we know we aren’t filling the measure of our creation.

Can we be sinners, and good people?

In Sunday School last week the question was asked, “Can we be perfect?” I quickly answered, “No, or else we’re all in trouble.” This was followed by a discussion about how we should strive toward perfection, then Christ will do the rest.

The more I study the scriptures, the more I realize how imperfect I really am. This bothered me for a few weeks, until I began to understand a little more.

Romans 3:22-24King James Version

²² Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

²³ For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

²⁴ Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

I am deeply humbled to know that God loves us so much, that He sent His only begotten Son to be sacrificed — for us; so that we may be forgiven of our sins and daily shortcomings.

We won’t be perfect in this world. God knows it. He loves us anyway. I know it’s not even close, but I compare it to the love I have for my own children. They can mess up, and I love them all so much — unconditionally. The difference is, His is perfect love. We can’t fully comprehend that kind of love here on earth. It doesn’t mean we get a free pass to live our lives carelessly. We should make an effort to do good every day. Ironically, that effort is what brings us peace, happiness, and even joy.

God wants us to give Him our guilt, shame, and burdens. He wants to replace those feelings with peace, love, and joy

We may not be perfect, but we can be made perfect through Christ.

2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV

⁹ And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Many blessings to you and yours.