Scripture
Ephesians 2:8-9 – For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Observation
Our salvation comes from a loving God, who in His grace to us sent His son to complete the work on the cross to save us from being dead in our sin when we place our faith in Jesus. Grace and our subsequent faith in Jesus is the gift from God and it was finished on the cross. Therefore, there is no work required to receive the grace of God so one can’t point to themselves rather than make God known.
Application
Grace through faith as a gift from God separates Christianity from all other world religions. God loved us so much, when we were in opposition to Him, that He sent Jesus to pay full price for our souls. The work is finished and it is done. I must remember this and know that there is nothing I can do to work my own salvation. If that was the case, then Jesus didn’t need to die on the cross. This is counter to the anti-gospel of other religions which says you have to work to obtain salvation. Grace and faith in Jesus is the greatest gift the world will ever know.
Prayer
Father, Thank you for your gift of grace in sending Jesus and allowing me to have faith in him so I can know you. Help me to share your love and gospel in a kind and gentle way to point others to your glory.