4 years ago

EVER WONDER WHY?—5 WHY CAN’T I STOP?

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You’re focusing on the poison of religion and forgetting the power of grace.

Religion is our attempt to earn God’s approval by following all the rules.

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. Titus 2:11 NIV

charis: the unmerited goodwill and favor of God The grace that saves you is also the grace that sustains you.

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age … Titus 2:11-12 NIV

How Does God’s Grace Change Us?

The focus of religion is outward. “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” Matthew 23:25-26 NIV

The power of grace is inward.

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,. Ephesians 3:16 NIV

• Religion says, “Try harder.” • Grace says, “Trust more.”

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 10… For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV

Asking for help is never a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of wisdom.

You’re trying to meet a need or relieve a hurt with something besides God’s grace.

… But where sin increased, grace increased all the more … Romans 5:20 NIV

Think About It

What is your thought process like when you’re trying to break a bad habit? How could you focus less on the outward and more on the inward power of grace?

Read 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. Where might you need to rely on God’s power more than yours?

You are only as strong as you are honest. Talk about a habit in your life that you’d like to change. How can your church family support you?