Proverbs 14:12 reads, “There is a way that seems right to a man but in the end it leads to death.” Religion offers “a way”. A way to live. A way to please God and get right with Him. A way to joy and contentment. As Proverbs says, it appeals to our sensibilities and “seems” right, but it is a beaten path that never delivers on its promise and leaves the traveler weary, disillusioned and defeated. It bids you do your best, keep trying, and you will eventually arrive…but you never do, because it’s the wrong way!
In stark contrast, Jesus offered Himself as “the way”, not a way, to live, please God and find purpose and meaning. His offer allows us to place our confidence in all He has done rather than what we are doing…this is grace! Because the wrong way of religion “seems” right, the true way of grace can often appear counterintuitive since it goes against the grain. Jesus has shown us that His way, which is truth, is where death leads to life (Galatians 2:20), serving is leading (Matthew 20:28), sacrifice is fulfillment (Luke 9:24) and weakness is strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). This is the truth of the way that is life! This is the path the child of God is on, the one paved with His love, not our labor and it brings joy and delight as we take a U-turn on the road of religion and travel the freeway of grace! Enjoy the ride!
Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.