The world does a very good job, rather an excellent job, in teaching that we can accomplish anything when we set our mind to it. Over the years I have seen many people accomplish wonderful things. They have built great forturnes, companies, had wonderful families. Their list of accomplishments are endless.
In a church setting I have seen many members that have accomplished great things. They are active in the church, they teach, they give Bible studies and do countless jobs in the church. I often wonder, why are they so active. What gives them this passion for service.
As I listen to them speak it is soon evident that they are not necessarily concerned for phyiscal wealth but are concerned with spiritual wealth. One might think this would be a good thing, until you realize that the reason they are doing all these wonderful things. They are trying to accumulate all this spiritual wealth by there works. In short they are attempting to earn their way to heaven.
The Bible clearly teaches that I can do nothing of myself to assure myself of salvation. It is a free gift. This gift was purchased for us by Christ who shed His blood then gave this gift to each of us. All have an equal chance to accept this gift.
But many feel in order to accept this gift we must work for it. Philippians 4:13 says, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Our sinful nature has so turned us from the heart of God that I have no ability on my own to accept this gift, unless Christ who strengthens me gives me the strength to accept this gift. Grace is free! I can do nothing to gain it. Only Christ can give it and then gives the power necessary for me to accept His gift.
Stop stuggling, stop thinking we can do it on our own for there is nothing we can do of ourselves, for it is Christ who strengthens us and with His strength we can accept the gift of grace which I have no power on my own to accept
The Bible In Your Hand 