“Western society is the ultimate achievement-oriented culture. But the Christian life is not achieved; it is received.”
Daniel Henderson is an author, pastor, and President of Strategic Renewal. He’s experienced the legalistic lifestyle and says it ultimately robs us of life. Our purpose is not to earn God’s favor through ongoing work, but to simply experience His love.
“We had all these false standards of spirituality that never ultimately restrain the flesh.”
Many people in the church feel they needed to do certain things or hit certain milestones in order for God to love them. Over time, Daniel has needed to unlearn what he’d been taught in order to learn the truth.
Jesus already loves us – our work and sacrifice are done in gratitude.
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:1-2
When our mind is renewed, we realize we can rest. It’s not always easy to rest in God. Salvation is a one-time event, but the process of renewal is necessary on a daily basis.
“The hardest thing about the Christian life is it is so daily.”
Remind yourself – God’s love is not something to be achieved but to be experienced! This thinking ripples out into every area of life, including the way we minister to others.
God’s love is not an achievement!
“If we think we can achieve it then we’re always looking for the next formula, the next strategy, the next tactic, the next borrowed idea. And all of that becomes a cheap replacement for the power of the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out.”
Daniel offers more principles in his book .
Daniel Henderson has been guiding individuals, leaders, and churches to embrace experiences of powerful spiritual renewal for three decades. He has served as a senior pastor to thousands in congregations in California and Minnesota. Today he speaks across the nation at leadership conferences and local churches while coaching pastors and business leaders in the principles of a strategic and spiritually significant life.
Key Scriptures: Galatians 1:24; Galatians 1:10; Romans 12:1-2
Featured Songs: God and God Alone by Chris Tomlin; Everything is Mine by Christy Nockels; Sons & Daughters by North Point Worship
The Deeper Life
