Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV) 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
Many followers of Christ know the truth of this verse but still fail to convince their minds that it’s true.
We spend far too many hours each week trying to win God’s blessing.
We strive for the acceptance of the people around us.
All this to get their seal of approval on our lives.
First, we must understand that the approval of people means absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of things.
Most importantly, though, we never need to work for God’s love, His approval, or His grace.
It’s funny how we learn this, and we acknowledge it outwardly, but we can never seem to full convince ourselves fully that we cannot earn our way into God’s heart or His favor.
His grace is undeserved. Period. End of story.
How do we define grace? Some may call it unmerited favor; kindness that is undeserved and unattainable by working for it.
The most important thing for us to remember is that this grace is given at no cost to us; no work whatsoever is required on our part. This eliminates any chance that we may boast about how much we did to earn our salvation.
Being reminded of this should help keep us from trying to win God’s approval or “earn bonus points” with God.
He shows no favoritism.
Romans 2:11 (NKJV) 11 For there is no partiality with God.
So, our efforts should be directed toward living righteously, in ways that reflect God’s holiness, to bring glory and honor to Him.
But never should we think or feel that we must earn His love, His favor, or His redemption.
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443
401-439-3780
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