What has the law revealed to us? It shows that we continually fall short of righteousness. Because of this, there is a constant need for payment to be made for our wrongdoing, as the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). I strive to be good, but I find it difficult, as even the good I do comes with strings attached (Romans 7:15-20). Often, when I try to do good, I expect something in return. Can you relate? I realize I fall short of the righteousness of God.

But what if there were a way for righteousness to be fulfilled on my behalf, once and for all?(1 Peter 3:18, Hebrews 10) All the law and the prophets looked forward to this fulfillment (Hebrews 11). Thankfully, in Christ, God has fulfilled the law on our behalf (Matthew 5:17). This righteousness is offered without distinction of position, power, prestige, family background, affiliation, membership, baptism, or intelligence. It is available to all who trust and believe in the work of Jesus Christ, who lived the life we could not live and died the death we deserve.

This gift is given to us (Ephesians 2:8-9), showing that God remained faithful to His word—sin must be accounted for, and payment must be made. In His faithfulness, He took upon Himself our unrighteousness and paid for it in full, giving us His righteousness(2 Corinthians 5:21).

So, what do we have to boast about? We boast in Christ, who satisfied the wrath of God on our behalf and gave us a clean slate, fulfilling God’s righteous law.

Now, when I fall short, I rejoice in my Savior who has not fallen short, and who promises to continually transform me into His image through the work of His Spirit (Ephesians 4:22-24). I am justified by trusting in the work of God on the cross and in my life on my behalf. Praise be to God!

Father God, thank You for the work of Your Son on the cross. Because You live, Jesus, I live, and I no longer need to fear being separated from You. You have brought me into Your presence by the blood of Your Son. Thank You, Jesus!