Holy Spirit: Finisher of Faith

The apostle’s exhortation to these Christians should cause us to pause.

After hearing the law, the Galatians concluded that God’s judgment would surely fall on them. Joyfully, after hearing the gospel, they believed that Jesus was clearly crucified for their sins.

Everything was going along fine. Then the enemy crept in saying, “Yes, the cross is important, but what about keeping God’s commandments?” The devil is very crafty. He knows Christians can fall into error seeking to be justified by their good deeds.

Seeking to be justified in his sight by law-keeping is dangerous. For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse since they do not keep it perfectly. Christ is of no value at all. (Galatians 3:10; 5:2)

Why then were the commandments given? To declare us guilty before God and show us our sin. Therefore, no one will be declared righteous in his sight by the works of the law. (Romans 3:20)

Jesus is the Righteous One. He kept the law perfectly. He became a curse for us who broke the law and redeemed us. His righteousness was imparted to us because we believed in him.

We are justified by faith in Christ. That’s it. Nothing more, nothing less.

Christian friend, who are we trusting in? Who are we relying on? Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, remembering that without faith it is impossible to please him. Be encouraged, he is the author and finisher of our faith.

Now we have been set free to love and to serve. Take heart! The Spirit indwells us. His fruit will show forth in us proving our faith is genuine.

Lord let this be etched in my heart and mind forever: “For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing.” Galatians 2:19-21

Song of Encouragement: Let the worship song " target="_blank">"Yet Not I but through Christ in Me"

encourage you today.