Living in the Garden of Grace: Break Up That Marriage!
Reflecting on Kuykendall's Insights
In his devotional, Living in the Garden of Grace, David Kuykendall uses the metaphor of marriage to illustrate the believer’s transition from living under the law to living in union with Christ. Drawing from Romans 7:1-4, Kuykendall reminds us that believers are called to sever their "marriage" to the law through death, enabling a new, intimate relationship with Jesus. This transformation is crucial for bearing fruit to God.
Breaking Free from Legalism
The Apostle Paul writes:
"…you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another—to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God" (Romans 7:4).
This passage reveals an astounding spiritual reality: we cannot live for Christ while simultaneously clinging to the law. Legalism, represented by the "first husband," keeps us bound to performance-based living, striving for acceptance through rules and works. But this marriage to the law must end for us to embrace the grace-filled life Christ offers.
Paul’s illustration is striking. It likens legalism to an intimate marriage—one that can feel consuming and even commendable. A life under the law often includes zealous Christian activities, pride in achievements, and the illusion of self-sufficiency. However, this misplaced confidence prevents the believer from fully experiencing the life and freedom found in Christ.
Death: The Key to Freedom
The only way to dissolve this binding relationship is through death. As Paul explains, the believer’s death with Christ on the cross breaks the grip of the law:
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).
It’s essential to recognize that this crucifixion is not something we accomplish through self-effort. Instead, it is a reality we embrace by faith. The moment we receive Christ, we are united with Him in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). This union allows us to live as His bride, no longer bound to the demands of the law but free to walk in grace.
The Fruit of Union with Christ
Once our "marriage" to the law ends, we are free to live in union with Christ, our risen Lord. This new relationship produces spiritual fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, and other evidence of the Spirit’s work in us (Galatians 5:22-23). Instead of striving to produce results through our own strength, we rest in Christ, trusting Him to live His life through us.
This shift from law to grace transforms our motivations and outcomes. No longer are we driven by a need to earn approval or prove our worth. Instead, we are empowered by the indwelling Spirit to glorify God in all we do.
A Prayer of Restful Surrender
Lord, thank You for freeing me from the bondage of the law through my union with Christ. I surrender the remnants of my self-effort and legalism, acknowledging that only through Your grace can I live a life that pleases You. I praise You for empowering me to abide in You daily, bearing fruit that brings glory to Your name. Thank You for the joy and freedom of being Your bride. Amen.
A Final Thought
The call to “break up that marriage” may seem harsh, but it is a call to freedom and abundance. Clinging to the law keeps us from experiencing the fullness of life in Christ. As we embrace our crucifixion with Him, we enter into a divine relationship where His life flows through us, producing fruit for His glory. Let us rest in this truth and celebrate the freedom of living as Christ’s bride.