Contemplative Bible Reading

Romans 10:3-4 (New Living Translation)

3 For they don’t understand God’s way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God’s way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law. 4 For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God.

There is so much in these few sentences. Let’s discuss a phrase from the second sentence. People—us, me—cling to our own ways of getting right with God.

I want to be right with God (good). I want to be right with God my own way (bad). God provides a way (good). God’s way is simple (good). God provided God’s way (even better). God’s way is simply through belief in Christ (this gets even better).

Still, I want to do it my own way. What is wrong with me? And even better, God forgives me for my selfish and childish wishes to “do it myself.” What is wrong with me? Please God, help me in my unbelief. And, thank you God for providing a miraculous way be being right with you.