Living Justified by Faith
Inspired by insights from Day by Day by Grace
"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ… But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for 'The just shall live by faith.'" (Galatians 2:16; 3:11)
Our deepest need before a holy God is justification—to be declared righteous and free from guilt. On our own, this seems impossible. God, by His very nature, is perfectly holy. In contrast, humanity is deeply flawed by sin. Isaiah captures this sobering truth: "But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6). No matter how sincere our efforts, they fall far short of God's standard.
The reality of sin is universal and its consequence severe: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God… For the wages of sin is death" (Romans 3:23; 6:23a). This judgment—eternal separation from God—is the rightful outcome for rebellion against a holy and eternal God.
The law, though perfect, cannot rescue us. It exposes sin but offers no solution. No human effort, vow, or resolution can bridge the gap. Only Jesus, who was "in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15), lived in perfect alignment with God's law. He alone satisfied its demands.
Yet, God in His mercy did not leave us in despair. Instead of demanding we reach His standard, He invites us to receive Christ’s righteousness. "A man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ." This is not faith in our abilities but complete trust in Christ’s finished work on the cross. Our justification is not earned; it is graciously given. This is why Scripture declares, "The just shall live by faith."
A Parable of Trust:
Imagine a vast chasm between two cliffs—on one side stands humanity in its sin, and on the other, God in His holiness. Many attempt to cross using self-made bridges of good deeds, moral living, and religious rituals. But every bridge collapses under the weight of imperfection. Then, a bridge built by God Himself extends across the divide. It is strong, secure, and unshakable. This bridge is Jesus Christ. To cross, one must simply step onto it in trust, leaving behind all self-effort. Only by walking this God-made path can one safely reach the other side.
Prayer:
Father, I rejoice in the truth that I am justified not by my works but by trusting in Jesus Christ. Thank You for providing the perfect bridge through His finished work on the cross. I rest in the righteousness You have already given me and live by faith in Your promises. May my life reflect the freedom and joy of being declared righteous in Your sight. In Jesus’ name, Amen.