by leaps and bounds

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God- not of works, lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).

You know, we can be our own worst critic. I know this phrase is a little cliche, but it is so true. I know for sure that I qualify as my own worst critic. This is how it is for me:

I can play music, but I’m not good enough.
I can write, but not good enough to write a book. I pray, but not enough.
I read my Bible, but not enough.
I try to live right, but I’m not holy enough.

Ephesians 2:8-9 addresses our tendency to think we are never good enough. We are saved through faith because our works will never be good enough. When we depend on our abilities, and see how inadequate they are, we can begin to feel that we are unworthy to even approach God. This is so far from the truth.

If we could save ourselves, why did Jesus have to die on the cross? If our works can save us, how many and what kind of works do we have to perform? The real truth is- God wants to help us do what we cannot do by ourselves. Therefore, no matter how unworthy we may feel, He invites us to approach Him instead of shrinking away from Him. Notice the following Scriptures:

All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and THE ONE WHO COMES TO ME I WILL BY NO MEANS CAST OUT (John 6:37).

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you…(James 4:8).

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you (I Peter 5:6-7).

Considering these verses, what should we do? Stop the criticism. God says we can come to Him and He will help us. We can stop the criticism!

---

Dave Snyder is an Ordained Bishop with the Church of God – Cleveland, Tennessee. Before entering the ministry on a full-time basis, he was a school teacher. He also coached middle school basketball for eight years.

Dave and his wife, Sara, have two children  — Craig and Karen. They also have one ten year old granddaughter  — Breanna. 

Dave and Sara pastored in West Virginia for thirty-six years. Sara is now retired from the banking industry, and Dave is retired from pastoring. However, Dave currently serves as prison Chaplain for the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 

Writing essays, articles, and devotionals is a real passion for Dave. He also enjoys playing musical instruments and singing.