The Winning Formula

Matthew 5:38-47

Do you want to be a better person?  Do you want to experience health, happiness, and prosperity?

Of course you do! Who wouldn't say yes, yes, yes!

So what is the formula? Where do I sign up for the seminar that will make all of this possible?  Is there a money-back guarantee? How do I do it?

Jesus says you can't. All your efforts will fail. On your own, you will be a total, unmitigated disaster.

There is no formula. There is no winning strategy. No Power Point class that will give you the tips and cues you need to be a winner.

There is only this: Take up your cross and follow me. Recognize that on your own, you will fail.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls us to himself. He tells us that the only way to 'the good life' is through him.  Read this passage over several times, especially verses 43-47.

• love your enemies - impossible without God
• pray for those who persecute you - impossible without God
• Be perfect - WHOA, this one is REALLY impossible without God.

Lord, there is no human formula that will make me perfect.  I will fail every single time on my own power.  Help me to fall into your arms, to give up the illusion that through my own willpower and good choices, I will earn your favor.  Thank you for the gift of eternal life and I can't earn, and help me to go forward in joy, knowing that you paid the price forever and ever.  Amen.