S – “And yet because we know that a person is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we ourselves have believed in Christ Jesus. This was so that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no human being will be justified.”

Galatians 2:16 CSB

O – Commentary:

In this verse, one of the most important in the epistle, the word justified occurs for the first time. It is a legal term, borrowed from the law courts and means “to declare righteous.” Its opposite is “to condemn.” But since people are condemned sinners and God is holy, how can people be justified? In answer, the apostle made a general declaration that negatively man is not justified by observing the Law, but positively, justification is by faith in Jesus Christ. This is a strong affirmation of Paul, Peter, and the rest—introduced by We … know. It is followed by a statement in which Paul explained that he had put this doctrine to the test and validated it in his own experience (v. 16b). Finally, in verse 16c the apostle reaffirmed that justification is by faith and not by works (cf. Gen. 15:6).

 “Galatians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – It comes down to our faith in Christ.  Everything flows from that.  Our works, actions and words should model a genuine faith in Christ.

R – Heavenly Father, we honor you above all other things that exalt themselves.  You alone are worthy of our faith.  We put our trust in you.  Help our thoughts, words and actions align with your Word and will for our lives.