4). But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5). Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved:) 6). And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7). That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8). For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9). Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10). For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
EPHESIANS 2:4-10
Many people believe that piling up good works can make them right with God. Yet when it comes to sin, death is the only payment that can satisfy divine justice (Romans 6:23). Since we all sin, this leaves us facing an eternity cut off from God. But grace, the expression of divine love and kindness to the undeserving, prompted the solution: Jesus. According to John 6:29, the only “work” we need to do is believe. The Savior’s death brought us:
• New Life. Our spirit is made alive in Christ the moment we acknowledge we’re sinners and believe that His death paid our sin debt in full.
• Freedom. At salvation, sin’s power over us is broken and we are set free from its hold. Now we can exercise our newfound freedom and follow the Lord.
• Security. When we accept that we are sinners and acknowledge our Savior’s sacrifice as payment for all our wrongdoing, we’re permanently adopted into God's family. Someday we will be seated in the heavenly realms with Christ to enjoy life everlasting with Him.
God, the One against whom we rebelled, sent His Son to receive the punishment that was rightfully ours. How do you show the Lord gratitude for His saving grace?
-IBC
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