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Enjoy Life, Enjoy God


Dale Patterson

PAYCHECK RELIGION

September 1, 2009

Due to a lifetime of reinforcement, many of us think our religious beliefs conform to the way the rest of our lives function. Do a deed, get paid accordingly.

"Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness."
"Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
Blessed are those whose sin the Lord will never count against them."
- Romans 4:3,7,8 TNIV

Romans 4 begins the challenge and the wonderful invitation to set aside "paycheck religion," and to learn the economy of God's grace. Paul's point here is that this is nothing new, but from the beginning. God's relationship with Abraham--way back then--was based on Abraham having faith in God, in God's grace. Abraham did not get grace and God's blessings as a payment for services rendered, but by trusting God's goodness. Oh, there will be more to say about this as we pursue Romans. But...

Some of us still think of our relationship with God as a paycheck religion. I pray right now that we throw that burden down. Friend, two last thoughts: #1, Grow comfortable in the grace of God. #2, Grow faithful in the grace of God.
Joyfully,

Dale Patterson