We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. - Isaiah 53:6

Dear Lord, if John 3:16 is the gospel in a nutshell, then this passage is the gospel in a matchbox. It actually is very comforting to be able to admit that I am a sheep that strays every day. It gives me freedom from trying to be perfect in order to feel good about life. Instead, I get to feel good about this; you have laid my iniquity on your Son. Thank you for signing up to be my God and Savior. I realize it cost you everything. I gladly sign up to be your sheep. I will do all I can to receive your grace with a grateful heart and will try to be good to all your other sheep for your glory and their good. AMEN

When you know who and what you are and stop trying to be something you're not, then you have made a giant stride in spiritual growth.

Additional Reading: Psalm 130, 1 Peter 2:21-25, Romans 4:25 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Ephesians 4:32