Has God Gone Soft?

During a conversation with a friend a few days ago, I was asked the following question;

"Are you saying that Grace means we should forget about obeying God's commandments?"

I proceeded to answer her question with another question. 

"Let's say you've spent all your life obeying all of God's commandments to the fullest. But on one particular day you fall into sin; and it so happens it is on that very day that Jesus returns, do you think you'll make it to heaven?"

"I guess not," she answered. 

"Well in that case none of us stand a chance of getting to heaven. Because it is nigh impossible to obey every single commandment fully. For example, even the Pharisees, who were sticklers for obeying all the laws, were guilty of not obeying God's second most important commandment - love your neighbour as yourself."

Incidentally those solely focussed on the law and what they must do, seldom have a relationship with God or love those around them. The desire to 'do' and 'earn' leaves little room for love. 

There is nobody that can claim to be sin free. That is why Jesus died for us. He lived a perfect life in order for our imperfections to be accepted by God.

God hasn't gone soft on the law. His standards remain as high as they've ever been. But in the knowledge of the fact that we are incapable of attaining such lofty heights of holiness, he sent His son to do the work for us. 

So what does that make you?

1. A Beloved Child of God At All Times

2. Perfect In Righteousness Through Jesus Christ At All Times

3. No Longer Bound By, or Under The Law

4. Free To Approach God At All Times In The Knowledge Your Righteous Standing 

It is when we submit to God's Unconditional and Perfect Love that we are able to love those around us; thereby giving us the genuine desire to Love God and our neighbour - not because of what we may earn as a result, but because we genuinely desire to Love.