You can't earn what you already have

We are a society obsessed with earning. We are a society obsessed with spending as well, but we will chat about that another day. When we think of "earning" we likely equate that word with receiving money for work performed, right? But we use the word "earn" or "earning" to describe far more than folding green given to us for doing a job.

Can't you hear a father barking the following words of wisdom at a child? (Perhaps you've heard one or more of the following in some form from your dad (or mom) before)

"You better earn good money, if you ever want to retire."
"You gotta work hard in life and earn your keep."
"Nobody gets a free ride, earn your way."
"Keep your head down at your job and earn your stripes."
"If you want to make the team, put in time at practice, and earn your spot."
"First impressions are important, earn their respect."

Take all of the above examples an earthly father might say to his children. Now, let me tell you the simple words of wisdom our Heavenly Father gives his children. Are you ready?

"I love you. Love me in return."

At this risk of sounding like the host of an infomercial...."Is it really that simple, Adam? Yes, friends, it's really that simple." It's also much more exciting than a George Foreman Grill. The most amazing thing we can ever own, the most precious thing we can ever possess we...cannot...ever...earn. Our Father's love and forgiveness are free 99. He cares not about your money, your degrees, or your social standing. He wants a heart fully committed to Him.

Contrary to what you may have heard from others, scripture tells us it's not good works that get us into heaven, it's God's GRACE, alone. When WE focus on OUR lives and OUR works, we lose focus on the FATHER. What could we possible do or achieve that would impress the creator of Heaven and Earth?!? Believe it or not, YOUR salvation and YOUR eternal life aren't about you or your goodness at all, it's all about who God is and what His son did for you. A pinch runner in baseball, can't sprint from the dugout to third base and boast, "I hit a triple!"

You can't earn something that's given freely to you in love. The gift of God's forgiveness is better than any $20 bill you'll ever shake out of a birthday card from your grandma. You shouldn't lead a good and moral life to prove to God you are worthy, you should lead a good and moral life because to God, you already are.
As you move through this world, your good works should be given in thanksgiving for a gift you've already received, not something you are looking to earn. This world is broken, but we've been given a ticket to a place far greater than any Chocolate Factory, and we don't even have to buy a truck load of Wonka Bars to get there.

The world is broken because we are broken. Like our buddy, Humpty Dumpty, from the golden books of our youth, we can't put ourselves back together. There is only One who can fix us, and He works not in money, not in good works, but in reciprocal love. He's not impressed by cash or accolades, rather He looks for loving and loyal hearts. So, love Him, accept Him, and for goodness sakes hear this: you can't earn what you already have.

Much Love, Adam

"God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

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