Trying No More!

I tried keeping rules and working my head off to please God.  It didn't work.  My motto used to be the old Sunday school song, "read your Bible, pray everyday and you'll grow, grow, and grow."  NO!  Spiritual growth did not occur because I was "doing" more.  However, when I became aware of His loving presence as my life things did begin to change.  I quit being a "law man" so that I could be God's man. 
Christ's life showed me how and enabled me to do it.  I identified myself completely with Him. Indeed, I have been crucified with Christ.  My ego is no longer central.  I have no human nature (never did) but, Christ's nature.  Christ is my new point of reference!   It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion.  I am no longer driven to impress God.  Why?  Because I am just as righteous as Jesus Christ! You say, “Blaspheme!”  But, wait, if you are in Christ you are just as righteous as Jesus Christ - not essentially but relationally.  Not that you become “like God” but you are involved in intimate relationship with Him expressing His righteous life as yours.
I have stopped trying to live the Christian life.  Not only did I discover I can't, but, God never intended me to try.  That was Satan’s idea.  Christ lives in me.  The life you see me living is not "mine."  It is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.  Ever since my spiritual exchange, Christ is my life! 
So, if you are a true believer in Jesus Christ, remember who you are today and participate with Him!  Begin enjoying the abundant life which is yours in Christ.  Start living - aware of Jesus’ life in you, as you and through you!