A famous clockmaker took a visitor through his shop and pointed out two ways of regulating the time of the instruments. In one method, a master clock sounded a note at set intervals. If the other clocks were wrong, the signal would reveal their error, but it didn't set them right.

In the other method, a chronometer was connected electrically to several other clocks. Each beat of these timepieces was controlled by that master clock.

The first way of regulating time is a picture of God's law. It strikes the signal, pointing us to the Lord's perfect standards, but it cannot correct the wrong. The second method is a picture of God's grace. What the law could not do, grace can do.

God's law reveals sin, but it is powerless to save us from sin. It can show us our weakness, but it cannot provide strength. It can condemn, but it cannot justify. The law commands, but it does not enable. The law kills, but grace gives life. Law is outward; grace is inward.

You can't overcome sin and obey the Lord unless you have placed your faith in Him and have His Spirit living in you. Then remain in close fellowship with Christ (Jn. 15:4-5). Stay connected to the Master.  — M.R. De Haan