God and Me: Devotions from Time of GraceSample

God and My Failures

Circuses, carnivals, and all manner of traveling shows for millennia have featured psychics and mind readers. They make their money off gullible customers and generally tell them things they would like to hear. They're frauds, of course. But aren't you glad that nobody can really read your mind?

Think of all the garbage that's in there. Think of the old hatreds, stewing like toxic sludge at the bottom of your soul. Think of the pride that refuses to let you say, "I’m sorry." Think of the wet fog of depression that makes you feel unworthy of anything good or noble. Think of the dull recollections of the times you cheated or hurt other people. Think of the dreams of your youth that have crashed.

There is someone who can read your mind. "O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar" (Psalm 139:1,2). That knowledge is safe with him, though. He knows how great your failings are, and it was for just such a person as you and for needs just like yours that he sent his Son to live for you, die for you, and rise again for you.

His perfection makes up for all your failures. Through faith in him, you may claim the gift of a holy reputation in God's royal court. Seen through the lens of Christ, you look like a winner to God.