Yes, your old self was unacceptable to God, but that person was crucified with Christ, and a new person was created. As a Believer, when you look in the mirror, what do you see? Do you see a new creation in Christ? Because of Christ's work on the cross and the empty tomb, you are not who you used to be. And neither are other Christians! When we look at others, let's see them the way God sees them.
If you're a parent, a teacher, a pastor, or some other leader, you often find yourself in the position of having to train, coach, and shape other people's behavior. Seeing the people that you lead as God sees them is critical.
The most effective way to lead others is by grace and freedom and by appealing to their true identity in Christ--not by throwing law at them or telling them that their behavior determines God's blessing. Instead, we start by telling them they are a redeemed, chosen, and holy saint. You tell them that you know their heart and their true desire is to serve Christ.
Saying this appeals to their new and true identity in Christ. This is leading with grace and not law. This is what truly motivates others. Let's put people face-to-face with Jesus Christ, and when they get a clear picture of who He is what He has done, their natural response will be trust and obedience.
If we try to live according to the law, we fail every time. The law reveals problems, but won't fix them. The law is like a mirror. When I get up in the morning, the first thing I do is stumble into the bathroom, wipe the crust from my eye, flip on the light, and for some crazy reason, I look in the mirror. It's always a disappointment. You just look at your reflection and think, "Whoa...that's not what I was hoping for. I could have sworn I was better looking than that. The mirror reveals all the imperfections, but it can do nothing to help out the situation. Ever tried to brush your hair with a mirror? In the same way, the law points out the problem, and says you need some help. The purpose of the law is not to provide a solution but to drive us to Christ.
That's the way we value freedom, by leading with grace, not with law.
And oh yeah...have a great summer! It doesn't matter how old you are, the beginning of summer is splendiferous!
