Jackals

 

Jackals

Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary

Scripture Text: Galatians 3:1 and Song of Solomon 2:14-15

Series: Comments on Galatians

Today's Scripture Jigsaw

I sometimes feel like I am beating a dead horse but as Paul said elsewhere (Phil 3:1), it is no trouble for me and hopefully, it is a safeguard for you. So, I will say it as plainly as possible: There is nothing you must do — indeed, there is nothing you can do — in order for God to be favorably disposed toward you. That has already been accomplished on your behalf by Christ. What is left for you to do? Enjoy God’s company. Benefit from the fruit of your blessed relationship. God loves you; take pleasure in that fact. 

When you try to do things to make God love you, you are effectively rejecting his love. Your exertions tell God that his love for you is not enough and that you must do something to make him love you. In human relationships, we quickly tire of people who try to make us like them — especially if we already did like them. Soon enough, we look for ways to avoid those very people, who ironically, because they tried so hard, ended up annoying us. The same is true with God. Our presumptuous efforts (as if we could make God love us!) are like little jackals that devour the fruit of God’s friendship. 

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