One of the most interesting observations I’ve made about human beings is that we have an innate need to think of ourselves as good. This is why we’re prone to make excuses when we do wrong, and in the most extreme cases, why offenders such as rapists, thieves, and murderers will try and justify their actions with statements like, “I shouldn’t have done it but he pushed me over the line,” or “She provoked me because of the way she dressed,” or “He shouldn’t have left his wallet sitting there.” In all of these instances (and in many others), it’s difficult for wrongdoers to come to grips with their brokenness because they so badly want to believe in their own good intentions. I am firmly convinced that the reason we as people possess this fundamental desire to be decent and righteous is that we’re made in the image of God and we carry His imprint in our souls. We weren’t designed for the sinful nature we inherited from Adam and Eve, and with the fall of our flesh into transgression, the Lord’s likeness in us was marred. Unfortunately, this rendered us incapable of being good in our own strength, and as hard as we try to be perfect, we will always fail at some point. This is why it’s absolutely essential to have a Savior. When we receive Jesus and invite His Holy Spirit to govern our lives, He gives us a new identity and we are made “good” in God’s eyes. Even better, He empowers us to step into the fullness of His image so we can become the kinds of people who live responsibly, decently, and lovingly.

My friend, your goodness is found in the grace of your Savior! Because you were given a new birth when you accepted Jesus as your Lord, your sinful nature has been removed and His presence within you is free to shine. You don’t have to labor in your own strength to become the person you want to be; rather, you can surrender to the Holy Spirit’s regenerating power and be changed. As one who bears His image, your identity in Christ is secure, and He has released you from the need to posture, boast, and make excuses. Since you are His beloved child, you do enough and you are enough!