By Andrew Williams
Opening Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for your finished work on the cross. Help us to stop striving and to truly rest in the perfection of your sacrifice for us.
Today’s Scripture (NLT)
John 19:30b
“…Then he bowed his head and released his spirit.” [Context: His last words were “It is finished!”]
One of the heaviest burdens we carry is the feeling that we are not good enough for God. We strive to earn His approval, we work to make up for our mistakes, and we live with a low-grade fear that we will never measure up. We are constantly trying to add to our spiritual resume, hoping it will be enough.
But on the cross, Jesus spoke three words that shattered this performance-based religion forever: “It is finished.” The Greek word, tetelestai, was a common term stamped on a bill of debt, meaning “Paid in Full.” With His final breath, Jesus declared that the entire debt of our sin—past, present, and future—was completely paid for by His perfect sacrifice. There is nothing left to add.
To rest in Christ is to take Him at His word. It means you stop trying to pay for something that has already been purchased. You can rest from the striving, the guilt, and the constant self-evaluation because your acceptance before God is not based on your performance, but on Christ’s perfect, finished work on your behalf.
Disciples’ Life Tip: Every time you feel the pressure to “do more” to earn God’s favor today, stop and remind yourself of the truth by saying out loud, “My debt is paid in full. Jesus finished the work. I can rest.”
Closing Prayer: Father, thank You that our salvation is not based on our work, but on Christ’s finished work. Free us from the tyranny of trying to earn Your love, and let us rest in Your amazing grace. Amen.
