I'm Learning

The older I get, the more I realize...there are many things I don't know. Even some of those things I thought I knew, some things I've written and spoken confidently about, I didn't really understand. 
Over the past several weeks, I have been studying the book of Galatians, through IF: Equip. My aha moment came on day five of the study. It was that day that I gained a new understanding of something I have had a head-knowledge of for the better part of my life - God has made me perfect through the death and resurrection of Christ. 
So, why have I worked so hard to be perfect? 
If I had really believed that freedom is not possible through striving - through works or obeying the law - but only through faith in Christ, then I wouldn't have been so caught up in looking side to side, at what others are doing or in hopes of their approval or trying to become perfect by my own efforts.
How had I missed this?! How could I have denied myself the ability to live in the freedom of God's love? The place where there is no need to earn his favor, because I already have it.

My friends, don't count on your behavior to make you right with God. Instead, focus on placing your faith in Christ, live out your faith in love, walk in step with the Holy Spirit, and rest in God's grace.
It sounds simple, doesn't it? It should be. Unfortunately, it's something I am going to need to remind myself of daily. Otherwise, I will forget what I have learned. Again.
I must let God be God. This is what I am learning. I must yield my life to him, every day and let him fulfill the promises he has made. 
Most  of what I learned while studying Galatians I summed up in this prayer: 
God, you chose me. I believe that it pleases you  to reveal yourself to me through your Holy Spirit. It is because of your love for me that I must proclaim your good news for you and for your glory. May I do this by your plan  and with your power. Amen
Will you join me and make this your prayer today?