1426) I would not like to be a store-owner right now. Anyone who listens to the news or reads current events on their newsfeeds knows there is an ongoing surge of shoplifting and robberies. Even the biggest store chains are having to close up shop in some locations because they are losing so much money. I hate seeing these things happen and therefore, it’s easy for me to sit back and say, I’m glad I’m not like these thieves, but is this true? Am I different?

In John 10:1, Jesus tells us, using his sheep and shepherd illustration, there will be those who attempt to sneak over the wall to get into the sheepfold, and Jesus calls them thieves and robbers. In this verse, it’s apparent Jesus is referring to salvation.

Jesus tells us here that many people will attempt to earn salvation themselves and when they do this, they are robbing God of giving this gift that cost him his son. These individuals are saying, I know a better way for salvation; I will earn it myself. This is not the category I place myself in. What I have done is say, I must earn God’s love and grace because he can’t possibly love me as is. This is stealing or tainting God’s gift to me. He loves me, period and when I act in this manner, I am saying, No, you don’t. This leads me to another uncomfortable conclusion. When I do and say these things, I am calling God a liar. He tells me over and over again in his Word that he loves me and yet; I don’t believe it.

I think it’s about time I stop the rat race of trying to earn God’s love and graciously accept all God gives me, especially because I don’t deserve it.

Are you ready to end the rat race, too?