This way of faith is very different from the way of the law.” (Galatians 3:12 NLT)

Paul wrote to the Galatian believers, admonishing them NOT to revert back to imposing the regulations of the Law on themselves and others.

The Law – specifically the first five books of the bible, but generally the rules, regulations, and requirements of God as established in the Old Testament – was never intended to make us right with God; it was, however, given for specific reasons.

1. The Law shows us our sin. Like a road sign that says, “Wrong Way,” the Law alerts us to the impending danger of a life headed toward destruction. Without the law we would have no way of knowing our waywardness.

2. The Law shows us our need of a Savior. As proven over and over again by God’s people, no one can keep God’s laws perfectly. We all sin. And since we are (were) “bound” in sin, we, in ourselves, could never be reconciled to God. In other words, our salvation cannot be based on our good works. Our good works still don’t change or “undo” our bad works.

3. The Law prophetically points to the Savior – Jesus Christ. From the moment sin entered the world, God began to prophesy of the One who would come and fulfill the rules, regulations, and requirements of the Law. Jesus Christ is the promised “Seed” of Abraham, the One in whom we find salvation.

We are not saved by doing good things. We are saved by placing our faith in the One who alone has lived a perfect life, who willingly gave His life on our behalf, offering us His righteousness in exchange for our faith.

It is futile for us to revert back to living life in our own strength, when the very source of our life and salvation is Jesus Christ.

Father,
Today I am reminded that You are both the Author and the Finisher of my faith. I again place my confidence in You, rather than trusting myself.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.