Romans 5:12-21 NKJV

[12] Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned— [13] (For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. [14] Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come [15] But the free gift is not like the offense. For if by the one man’s offense many died, much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many. [16] And the gift is not like that which came through the one who sinned. The judgment that came from one offense resulted in condemnation, but the free gift that came from many offenses resulted in justification. [17] For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.) [18] Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life. [19] For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous. [20] Moreover, the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, [21] so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

I remember back to my childhood when all I wanted to do was ride my bicycle. I also remember how it felt when the chain came loose and rendered my favorite ride useless. I would try to fix it, but I never could seem to get it right. I knew if I could somehow get it to my dad, he could fix it. HE could make it right.

My attempts at righteousness are a lot like my attempts to fix that old bicycle. I could try all I wanted. I can even think that I have it all together. Eventually, something is going to shake loose, fail, or fall apart. Eventually, I am going to end up frustrated, disappointed, and discouraged.

Jesus has already fixed every problem I'll ever face. He took all of my parts and broken pieces and made me whole. Because of Him, I am repaired and restored. I am fit for use in the Kingdom. He is my portion, my assurance, and my provision.