Galatians 2:16 (KJV)

16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

We've all been taught to live just and upright in front of God. That justification comes from obedience to God's laws. But Paul teaches us that it is not through "the works of the law" that we are made righteous, but through faith in Jesus Christ.

Salvation and righteousness come solely through faith, not by adhering to the law or performing good deeds.

While the law reveals God's standards and exposes our sin, it is powerless to save. Paul emphasizes that "by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified," meaning that no amount of law-keeping can make us righteous before God. 

The law shows us our need for a savior, not a means for salvation.

Justification comes when we believe that Jesus paid for our debt eternally. With our own merits and efforts, we can never become justified. When we believe this precious gospel, we are liberated from the deeds of the law. Righteousness is a gift from God received through faith. This truth inspires us to love and serve others, not out of a desire to earn God's favor, but out of gratitude for his sacrifice. The faith that justified us also transforms us. It forms a different heart of compassion and stewarding. 

I hope we can all rely on the justification of Jesus. Amen!