From the first sin in the garden to the struggles of the Galatian church, the human heart has consistently sought to earn God’s favor. Adam and Eve reached for fig leaves, thinking their own efforts could hide shame and secure acceptance—but self-made coverings could never make them clean. Only God’s provision, made through the shedding of innocent blood, brought true covering and forgiveness. In Galatians, Paul exposes this same impulse within us: the tendency to rely on works, religion, or personal effort instead of resting in God’s grace.

The Galatians had begun their journey in freedom and faith but were tempted to return to the rags of self-reliance. Paul calls their folly gently but firmly, reminding us that righteousness is never earned; it is received. Like Abraham, we are declared right before God through belief, not behavior. The Spirit is given through faith in Christ’s finished work, not through our striving or accomplishments.

Every attempt to justify ourselves is like another fig leaf—temporary, inadequate, and ultimately powerless. Christ took the curse of our imperfection upon Himself, providing the substitute we could never achieve. Now, clothed in His righteousness, we stand redeemed, forgiven, and empowered by the Spirit. True covering is not of human making; it is the gift of divine grace, secure, eternal, and transformative. How are you resting today under the robe Christ has provided?