The main topics discussed in this chapter are: Projectionism, Perfectionism, Moralism/Legalism and Unhealthy Guilt. I know these are issues for folks but I kept asking myself - if you really know the heart of the Father and what the cross did for us, why are people still caught in these? Isn't the power of the cross that we can walk out of these and into an intimate and safe relationship with God Almighty?
I have to say that putting some distance between the Reckless Grace article and the re-reading of this first chapter really helped me. With some distance between them, this first chapter didn't seem to be so depressing but instead details possible areas that keep us from childlike faith and trust.
Regarding the opening turkey story - if God is perfect and full of love (and He is), there is nothing to fear. He is not fickle. Trouble and disappointment are not Him withdrawing from us or expressing His disapproval, but instead the fine chiseling of a Master shaping a masterpiece - Christ in me.
Regarding projectionism - it is true that people who influence us can put their own spin on what God looks at or is concerned with, but ultimately these just become a backdrop as I draw near to the throne of grace and come to know the heart of the Father myself. I apparently experienced a profound conversion based on this quote: "It takes a profound conversion to accept the belief that God is tender and loves us just as we are, not in spite of our sins and faults, but with them."
Regarding perfectionism - only God is perfect - He knows what I am and who I am - as long as I stay on the Potter's wheel, the work He's doing in me should be considered a work in progress - relieving me of the pressure to be perfect now and I'm really good with that.
Regarding moralism/legalism - who wants to be a score keeper and spend the energy to track other people - "all indeed is gift and gracious clemency"!
Regarding unhealthy guilt - I know people who have been trained by guilt - they are forever burdened and never feel like they measure up. However, a correct guilt which leads us to repentance evaporates once it has played it's role to restore us to right relationship. God remembers it no more so I am allowed to let it go as well - hallelujah!
With these out of the way, I'm looking forward to the upswing now that the table of contents seems to suggest.
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