If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings?
Colossians 2:20-22
Lord Jesus, thank You for the relationship that is mine in You! My soul rejoices in gratitude for the freedom that You have granted me access to through Your precious blood. I am no longer bound to a list of “do’s and don’ts”, nor is my relationship with You subjected to the scrutiny of whether I have played by the rules or not. Such has been the nature of so many of my relationships. They have been transactional, the question being, “What have you done for me lately?” In them I have fallen short, often missing the mark regarding doing or saying what is expected of me. Yet, my relationship with You has not been sealed by what I have done or have given, nor has it been perpetuated based upon what I am or can deliver. Instead, it was secured by what You have done for me. By Your unconditional love You have guaranteed for me not only a relationship with You, but also a seat in Your kingdom. Your favor is an overflowing wellspring of grace, removing the guilt and shame of my failures, and providing me a source of hope and encouragement as I plod along on my Christian journey. I do what I do not because I have to or to live up to a standard. It do it now because I love You and want to pay You back for all the goodness You have showered on me! LORD, You are indeed great! Thank You for setting me free from the shackles of expectations! Help me today to not only be free in spirit but also in thought. Help me when I find myself digressing back to that legalistic mindset by reminding me of the cost that You paid. Help me to deal with the feelings that rise up when I have fallen short of Your righteous standard by reminding me that forgiveness and a clear conscience await me when I lay all at Your feet. Help me when I struggle with feeling the need to prove myself by reminding me that I am accepted just as I am in You. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your unfailing love. Continue to remind me of it. I pray this in Your Name. Amen.