The opposing viewpoint may criticize my assertion, but I assure you it is supported by the text. Our legal identity is no longer defined by our transgressions, but rather by our transformation from darkness to light. This shift in identity is not contradictory; it is unified in purpose. Our salvation grants us a new identity as children of God, not based on our own actions but on His. Our response to this salvation is not to prove ourselves, but to engage in actions prompted by God's initiative.

We are no longer held accountable for our sins before God, yet we still sin. However, since we are no longer controlled by sin, God treats us with humility. To characterize this grace as the ability to obey undermines the concept of grace being solely a gift. It is like receiving a gift and then being told how to use it, without relinquishing control. God continuously bestows grace upon us despite our sins. The effectiveness of God's grace cannot be diminished by our perception of righteousness. We surrender control to God, rather than trying to manipulate or deceive others for personal gain. The apostle acknowledges that we will always struggle with sin, even though we have died to it. The only thing that saves us is not our desire to avoid sin due to forced obedience through grace, but rather the freedom to sin while being covered by grace and experiencing the joy of God's presence over the temporary pleasure of sin.

This represents the standard of our sanctity. We have been given a new identity. It is not solely through our own efforts that we receive these blessings, but rather through the redemption work of Christ. Despite our failures, the Father sees us through the lens of Christ, accepting us not for our perfection but for our genuine humanity. He understands our limitations and has humbled Himself to our level, offering us the means to trust in His grace and guidance.

This is the reason why we engage in sinful behavior, yet we consistently recognize the turmoil it causes within us. By confessing our sins, we acknowledge that we are unworthy to enter into His presence, but we maintain our determination to fulfill our intended purpose. With unwavering confidence, we approach God boldly, understanding that sin is merely a minor obstacle. This is the approach taken by the Psalmist when seeking God's presence.