The examination of Lent is to realize our incredible need of Christ. In Jeremiah 5 we read these words: “If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth, I will forgive this city.” The hard truth was that Jeremiah wouldn’t be able to find one that could save the city.

In Romans 2-3 we have the same proposition. The conclusion? There is no one righteous, not even one (Rom. 3:10). There is no one truly seeking God.

Paul’s point is to deliver a sense of helplessness. Without Christ we have no hope. No one is seeking God.

In this season I must ask myself, “How am I doing in my walk with the Lord? Am I seeking him? Do I need a renewed passion?”

There are times we need to have these passages examine us and help us realize we can’t get self-righteous. I have not achieved my standing in Christ. It has been freely given. It is his righteousness alone. I must stand with thankfulness.