The Only Way

“You don’t get what you wish for. You get what you work for.”

I’m not sure who originally said it, but the above quote struck a chord with me. I’ve wished for so many things in my life, but wishing doesn’t make it so. I wish to be a successful writer, but I haven’t written a word in over a week. I wish I was in better shape, but lately the only exercise I’ve gotten is jumping to conclusions. I can wish all I want, but to truly succeed I’m going to have to do the work.

The same is true in our relationship with God. While it’s true salvation is a free gift which cannot be earned, it is just the beginning. Jesus paid the price for your sin with His death on the cross, but He doesn’t want you to stop there. He wants you to “Grow to maturity” (2 Corinthians 13:11 NLT), to “grow in your knowledge of God” (Ephesians 1:17), and to have “a full experience of salvation” (1 Peter 2:2). All this takes work, not wishes.

Being a Christian is not just about sitting in a pew. It’s not just songs and sermons and quiet meditation. No, we are told to “Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.” (Philippians 2:12)

Wishing is fine for birthdays and fairy tales, but if in the Christian walk there are no shortcuts on the road to success. If you want to “grow in your knowledge of God” wishing won’t get you there.

To have a growing relationship with Jesus you have to spend time with Him in prayer every day, study His Word like your life depends on it (because it does!), and put your faith into action in service to others. In other words, you’ve got to do the work. It’s the only way!

God bless and have a great day!