John Newton: A Gospel Irony

It's a sad irony in our response to the gospel that, though we claim God's mercy is free, we keep trying to pay for it. We say the cross opens access to the throne of grace, yet whenever we stumble we are afraid to approach. We say that nothing we can do can earn God's favor which is already ours in Jesus, and yet we are still insecure in his love. Do we really believe this gospel?

"I am invited to take the water of life freely, yet often discouraged, because I have nothing wherewith to pay for it."