A Lifetime of Second Chances
Bible Readings
- Romans 5:1-6 - Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
- Ephesians 2:8-9 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
- Galatians 2:16 - Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
We can do nothing to earn the Lord's mercy — He gives it to us freely because of His great love.
Apostle Paul beautifully expresses the believer's standing in Christ: “By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand”. This grace is not a small puddle of mercy, but an endless ocean. The Lord's goodness is far greater than our mistakes.
Grace is a fundamental concept for the believer: God sent Jesus to the cross to pay for our sin, and now He freely offers forgiveness and His grace to all. But many misunderstand this — they call grace a gift in word, but in deed they try to earn it. However, if grace is obtained through effort, it is no longer a gift.
The Scriptures clearly state that works do not save us. But works are important for spiritual growth and service. We are called to serve the Lord every day. People cannot see another's intentions, but God knows the intention of every heart.
Let us not forget: to serve in order to earn God's grace or to “maintain” His blessing — is to try to trade with grace. We can do nothing to earn the Lord's mercy. He richly gives His grace to believers. The only thing we can do is to receive it.
🤔 Reflection
How does receiving God's grace as a gift differ from trying to earn it through works, and what does this mean for your daily life?
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