We have to Be perfect in order to make heaven

[Charnock]

If I believed I could save myself, I wouldn't need a Savior. If I believed I could be perfect, I wouldn't need His righteousness. He forgave my sin. He became my sin. He took the penalty for my sin. He declares me righteous, holy, and perfect. I love Him BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED ME.

Too many Christians are trying to prove they deserve Heaven. *Newsflash* No one deserves Heaven. "There is none (get that?) righteous, no not one." We live rightly because He has saved us, not in order to be saved. All of our attempts at perfection are a joke in the eyes of God.

The only way to become "perfect" is to fall on the mercy of Jesus. Some of us are trying to buy our way into Heaven with monopoly money (self-righteousness). It's worthless. His blood is the only real currency that pays the debt of sin.

Our lifestyle, worship, and rules exist simply to honor what He's done. Now that we are in relationship with Him, we should aim to please Him. Gratitude is at the heart of real Christianity, and that gratitude exudes from a life full of joy.

Gratitude cannot be replicated. Holiness cannot be legislated. Joy is a gift, not a mandate. These attitudes and attributes are present in the life of every truly SPIRIT-FILLED believer. Christianity is about relationship and assurance, not fear and separation.