“The more I recognize the ugliness of my sin, the more I can appreciate the beauty of God’s grace.”- Kyle Idleman
“For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift . . .”- Romans 3:23-24
In Chapter 1 (“More Forgiving Than Your Guilt”) of Grace Is Greater, Kyle Idleman talks about our reaction to guilt. When we’re guilty of something, even if it’s not a big deal, we:
- tend to react defensively
- passionately defend ourselves
- irrationally justify ourselves
- usually minimize the seriousness of our sin
Yet, we must face the ugly truth. The Bible, like a mirror, confronts us with the reality of our sin. We recite Romans 3:23 from memory. It’s not new information. However, Pastor Idleman raises this question: “How do you respond to that information?”
For many years, Kyle admits, he’d read verses like Romans 3:23 and think “technically, I’ve sinned. But I haven’t sin sinned.” In other words, “I’m not that bad.”
When someone, particularly a pastor, reminds us of our sinfulness, we tend to adopt a defensive stance. But, as Kyle points out, we can’t even meet our own standard, let alone God’s standard.
Thus, as long as we believe “I’m not that bad,” grace never seems that good. As a result, Pastor Idleman presents two ways we come to that conclusion. Kyle discusses the first way today.
1. We compare ourselves to others. Claiming perfection isn’t the issue. However, we usually give ourselves a big break when judging ourselves in comparison to what others have done. In the process we dismiss our sin and need for grace.
In conclusion, the author asks what word describes comparing yourself to other people and feeling superior to them? The answer- sin.
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you appreciate the beauty of God’s grace? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The biggest sinner you know”
