There is hope!

This pendulum-swinging lifestyle is reflected in what we call the 'path of my performace'. Living this way is falling into the trap of the legalist.

In this situation self is actually the focus rather than God. Even if the person is a believer, he or she will think that the solution to any failure is to 'try harder'. This struggler is always searching for the next book, the next program, the next church service, to find the 'key' to success. What is missing of course, is the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit enabling us to 'observe and correct'.

The truth is, grace isn't missing at all. It just hasn't been fully embraced. Those who find themselves in this predicament are like thirsty travelers who are unaware of a nearby fountain of life-giving water. The legalist swings from feeling good about her accomplishments on the one hand, to realizing that she can't keep up the pace on the other hand. Eventually she just gives up altogether, seeing herself as a 'failure'. Self-loathing sets in and she wallows in guilt, self-condemnation, self-pity, and sin. Before long, she goes out in search of another diet, another regimen, another set of rules.

Thankfully there is an antidote to this pendulum pandemonium. There is hope! There is no reason to stay stuck. Our God is willing and He is able. If you find yourself on the path of your performance, you can jump ship into an ocean of grace, deeper than any sin, broader than any transgression. It is cool, refreshing, and free. It cost our Savior everything, but in His love He offers it freely to us. --Thin Within p40-41

Oh my...talk about being convicted. Praise You Lord for loving me too much to allow me to remain where I'm at...for showing me the Light of Truth.