The Law Is Not Against the Promises of God

Galatians 3:21a

Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not!

Martin Luther:

A common proverb says hunger is the best cook. Just as the dry earth longs for rain, so the law makes troubled and afflicted souls thirst after Christ. To such people, Christ tastes wonderful; to them, he is nothing but joy, consolation, and life. And then Christ and his benefits begin to be recognized. Christ requires thirsty souls, whom he lovingly calls; he delights to water such dry ground. He does not pour his water on ground that is not dry and does not long for water. His benefits are inestimable, and therefore he gives them only to those who need them and earnestly desire them. He preaches good news to the poor; he gives drink to the thirsty (see John 7:37; Psalm 147:3). He comforts those who are bruised and afflicted by the law. Therefore, the law is not against God’s promises.