One of the most powerful and life-changing truths of the Christian faith is that we are saved by grace. This salvation is not something we can work for, earn, or deserve. It is a gift freely given by God through His unending love and mercy. In Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul emphasizes that grace is the foundation of our salvation, a truth that humbles us and brings us closer to understanding the depth of God’s heart for humanity.
Today’s Scripture:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
— Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV)
The Gift of Grace
Grace is God’s unmerited favor. It is His decision to bless us, despite our failures, shortcomings, and sins. It’s important to understand that grace is not something we can earn; it is freely given to us because of God’s love. Salvation, therefore, is not a reward for good behavior or moral living. It is the result of God’s kindness, His mercy extended to us when we least deserve it.
What Does It Mean to Be Saved by Grace?
Being saved by grace means that our salvation is not based on our own efforts. No amount of good works, moral behavior, or religious duties can make us right with God. Instead, salvation is entirely a gift from God, available to anyone who will receive it by faith. Grace reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and that our salvation is not dependent on human ability, but on divine generosity.
Faith: The Response to Grace
While grace is a gift from God, faith is our response to that gift. Faith is not a work in itself but a trust and reliance on God’s ability to save us. In Ephesians 2:8, Paul makes it clear that grace works “through faith.” It is faith in Jesus Christ that opens the door for us to receive the gift of salvation. We trust in His sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection as the full payment for our sins.
Why Works Don’t Save Us
Paul is explicit in Ephesians 2:9: “Not of works, lest anyone should boast.” This means that our own efforts, no matter how sincere or well-intended, cannot earn salvation. If salvation were based on works, it would lead to pride and self-righteousness. But grace leaves no room for boasting—it points all glory to God. This truth humbles us, reminding us that everything we have, from forgiveness to eternal life, is purely because of God’s goodness.
Living in the Reality of Grace
Grace doesn’t just save us—it transforms the way we live. Once we understand that we are saved by grace, it changes our entire perspective. We no longer strive to earn God’s love; we rest in the assurance that we are already loved. This newfound security empowers us to live in freedom, knowing that our standing with God is not based on our performance but on His grace.
- Freedom from Legalism: Legalism is the idea that we can earn God’s approval through strict adherence to rules and rituals. But grace sets us free from this burden. We no longer have to live under the weight of trying to be good enough. Instead, we can embrace the freedom that comes from knowing we are already accepted in Christ.
- Motivated by Love, Not Obligation: When we realize that we are saved by grace, our motivation for living a godly life shifts. We are no longer driven by fear or obligation, but by love. Our good works become a response to God’s grace, not a way to earn it. As 1 John 4:19 reminds us, “We love Him because He first loved us.”
- Walking in Humility: Grace humbles us because it reminds us that we did nothing to deserve our salvation. This humility should permeate our lives, influencing the way we treat others. Just as we have received grace, we are called to extend grace to those around us.
Grace: The Foundation of Our Faith
Grace is the foundation upon which our faith is built. Without grace, there is no salvation, no hope, and no relationship with God. Grace reminds us that we are entirely dependent on God for our salvation and that everything good in our lives is a result of His kindness. This truth gives us great security, knowing that our salvation is not fragile or temporary, but rooted in the eternal grace of God.
How to Embrace and Live in Grace:
- Rest in God’s Love: Accept that you don’t have to strive to earn God’s favor. Rest in the truth that His love for you is unconditional and unchanging.
- Extend Grace to Others: As recipients of grace, we are called to be givers of grace. Forgive others as God has forgiven you, and show kindness to those who may not deserve it.
- Stay Humble: Remember that salvation is a gift, not something you achieved. Let this truth keep you grounded in humility, always pointing back to God’s goodness.
Conclusion:
We are saved by grace, through faith, and not by our own works. This truth is the cornerstone of our faith, reminding us of the incredible gift we’ve been given. Grace transforms us, humbles us, and frees us to live in the light of God’s love. Let us live each day with gratitude for this gift, extending grace to others as we walk in the security of God’s unmerited favor.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of grace that saves us and brings us into a relationship with You. Help us to live each day in the freedom of Your love, walking humbly and extending grace to those around us. We trust in Your goodness and rest in the assurance of our salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Amen.
