The more I see of God, the less I think of myself.  To see God, to know Him is to see His greatness, and in the light of His glory, to see how desperately inadequate we all are.  This is good and a right response with coming into the presence of God, yet admittedly it flies in the face of our culture’s desire to glorify self, build up self-confidence, and celebrate independence.

Even within the church, we are confronted at times with messages about how God is a means to a better life.  This is true, but it ignores man’s most pressing issue, which is our complete inability to do anything good, especially not in any lasting way.  Man does not need a helping hand.  We do not need mere guidance and leadership on how to live a better life.  Consider the description of man by God in Genesis 6:5 – “The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”  When you read that, do you think that is describing someone else?  Even worse, do you read that and think of others and want to sit in judgment of them as if you’re better?  Genesis 6:5 describes all of us.  Romans 3:10-12 tells us again – ““None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.  All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good,     not even one.”

1 Corinthians 10: 12-14 – “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.  No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.  Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” 

When someone comes to Christ, he sees his sin, his utter helplessness before God as a sinner deserving judgment, and rejoices in the love of God through Christ to have redeemed those persons who put their faith in Christ and His atoning sacrifice for their sin.  Brothers and Sisters, my exhortation is that we never move from that place.  Every day, let your heart see your sin, yet rejoice in the love and grace of God in Christ Jesus.  Whether you have wandered far from God, or you have been running well with Him, He is near to each of us – look to Christ, and let the grace of God be sufficient for you in all things.  Whatever troubles we have in this life, are temporary, but our hope and joy in Christ is eternal.  With a right humility and meekness before God, look to Christ, cling to Christ, and hold on to the joy of your salvation each day.