For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: ‘Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law. Gal 3:10

Under a curse? Well here’s why, Romans 3:20: “…no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.” The Law normally refers to the first 5 books of the Old Testament, which outlines a covenant that God had with his people and which came with a list of rules and regulations. Later in Galatians 3 (v 24), we learn that the Law was our guardian or as other versions would put it, out teacher, our trainer, our guide “until Christ came, so that we might be justified by faith”.

There are 2 kinds of ways to try and gain favour with God. The first is by doing doing doing. This is also known as legalism. If only I can do more, then maybe God will be happier with me or maybe I will gain reward from him. These are the works of the law, which cannot make anyone righteous. The second and only way to gain favour with God is to realise that you already have his favour and to put your faith in what he has already done for you by sending Jesus to die on the cross.

Identify any legalistic tendencies you have had and ask God to forgive you and purge you of that. Express your trust on the finished work of Jesus on the cross. God never intended for us to strive through life and to run on our own strength, but to ride on Jesus and his strength. The Gospel turns everything on its head, for our benefit and God’s glory! Hallelujah!

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