April 29 | 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
- Julie Ogg
- Apr 28
- 3 min read
DAILY READING
REFLECTION
The Perfect Need Not Apply
by Julie Ogg
Can you imagine a job description that went like this…if you find yourself to be foolish, weak, lowly, and despised, please apply within. That would never happen! It doesn’t make any sense in the world in which we live. Who would apply for such a position?
God’s Kingdom has been called the Upside Down Kingdom or The Great Reversal and this passage in 1 Corinthians demonstrates why. Paul makes it very clear that God does not base our worthiness on our merit but on Jesus’ finished work on our behalf. As humans, we prefer to focus on our strengths, talents, achievements, and potential. We are typically uncomfortable revealing our weaknesses except to a close few. Imagine how freeing it could be to let down this pressure to perform when coming to our Heavenly Father and in the context of Christian community. The world expects and rewards us when we have it all together but God embraces the totality of who we were and are knowing our deepest struggles and sins. He is not surprised when you fall short of who He created you to be.
Imagine what could happen if we lived like this was true. Imagine the peace. Imagine the joy! Imagine how we could be free to love others instead of judging while quietly despising ourselves for the same failings. Imagine if we didn’t have to live up to perfection but could rely on someone who was, is, and will be perfect in every way and without sin. (Hebrews 4:15) Paul wants us to realize that we bring nothing to the table when it comes to our relationship with Jesus. We have no reason to boast. Everything needed for our salvation is a gift from the One who created us and loves us. He made a way for us to be in relationship with Him and with each other. Verse 30 reads, “It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God - that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.””
Pause and think about how your efforts to win God’s approval are weighing you down and creating a barrier in your relationship. Confess the burden you’re carrying to Him and a fellow believer. Joyfully embrace the knowledge that Jesus covers you in His righteousness and you don’t have to hide!
PRAYER
Lord, let me rest in your finished work on the cross. Free me from trying to earn your love. Overwhelm my heart with your mercy and grace and give me freedom to extend that grace to others. Thank you for your sacrifice on my behalf. Help me to love you with my whole heart!
Find additional "Dying to Live" study materials designed for small groups or individual use here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JULIE OGG
I have lived throughout the Midwest, the last twelve years in Columbus with my husband, Dan, and dog, Lollipop. I love to cook, travel, read, garden, and spend time with our nieces and nephews. I am naturally drawn to the Old Testament, particularly the poetic and prophetic books. I am grateful to be a part of the community of believers at UALC.
Comments