Sunday, June 29, 2025

 As we strive to find the strength necessary to carry on through the challenges of life, it is crucial that we recognize the limitations of our own resources; we cannot depend solely on ourselves. Although Christ has already addressed the problem of sin, our confidence in this profound truth does not always come naturally or easily. That is precisely why the apostle prays earnestly that our hearts would be enlightened with divine wisdom, so that we might truly see and understand this truth. But how can we attain this fresh perspective? We must acknowledge and remember that we have an elder brother—Christ—who is near to us, who sanctifies us through His sacrifice, and who, just as He is holy, is not ashamed to associate with us in our humanity. However, because Christ has not yet fully established His authority over this world of temptation and sin, we are called to keep our minds fixed on Him—who is a beloved son within God's family. We can find reassurance in Him because He boldly declares that relying on our own righteousness will lead to no true rest or peace. Although others may cause us pain or hardship in this life, they will eventually face judgment without Him, for He promises to sustain and uphold us through all circumstances. Our confidence in Him derives not only from our faith but also from His unwavering support—especially when our faith wavers or falters; He promises to uphold us when we grow weary. Christ, having personally experienced suffering and temptation Himself, is uniquely equipped to help us navigate our struggles, serving both as our brother and as the Son of God who cares deeply for His divine family. He rescues us from the malicious actions of those who seek to harm us and assures us that He will deliver us from unjust criticism rooted in self-righteousness. He desires us to grasp the enormity of our sinfulness so that we do not develop a false sense of confidence, like those who complain without genuine repentance. If I have not yet cited a specific Scripture, I encourage you to share it, for even in this humble moment, I can feel His divine presence among us. Humanity often struggles to trust fully in different areas of life—especially when it comes to confessing sins and experiencing the abiding joy that naturally accompanies genuine repentance, which provides comfort amid spiritual trials. This widespread lack of trust has led to a shift in theology, moving away from emphasizing spontaneous repentance. Today, believers are seen as united with Christ, living in a relationship where He is their guiding authority. Christ is fully aware of human frailty and our earthly nature; He understands all our weaknesses and is patient with us. True trust, therefore, is rooted entirely in Christ Himself—not in our own ability to obey and keep God's commandments.

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