Only by Grace
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith -- and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God -- not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Some of my most vivid memories from childhood came when I played football. I was so excited when I finally got the chance to suit up in junior high to play tackle football. Before the season began, I had to make sure I had all of the right equipment. I had to get cleats, shoulder pads, helmet, and a mouth guard. Each piece of equipment was important for success and protection as I played football.
In a lot of ways, suiting up to play football is similar to suiting up as believers. As followers of Jesus, the Bible describes how we are always in the midst of a spiritual battle. We are fighting against unseen forces every day to further the Kingdom of God and push back against the enemy. If we want to be successful in this battle, it is important that we suit up. To suit up effectively, we have to understand where we fit on God’s team. We must understand that we are only a part of God’s family by His grace and mercy.
The verses in Ephesians 2:8-9 make it clear that we are only able to be followers of God by grace. We have done nothing to earn a spot in His family. In fact, the only thing we are capable of doing is sinning. The only way to be forgiven of our sin is to have an encounter with Jesus Christ. Once we acknowledge this truth, we begin to gain a better understanding of who we are in Christ.
I pray that you don’t take for granted the grace of God. Remember, you would not have a relationship with God if He had not extended His grace to you.
Some of my most vivid memories from childhood came when I played football. I was so excited when I finally got the chance to suit up in junior high to play tackle football. Before the season began, I had to make sure I had all of the right equipment. I had to get cleats, shoulder pads, helmet, and a mouth guard. Each piece of equipment was important for success and protection as I played football.
In a lot of ways, suiting up to play football is similar to suiting up as believers. As followers of Jesus, the Bible describes how we are always in the midst of a spiritual battle. We are fighting against unseen forces every day to further the Kingdom of God and push back against the enemy. If we want to be successful in this battle, it is important that we suit up. To suit up effectively, we have to understand where we fit on God’s team. We must understand that we are only a part of God’s family by His grace and mercy.
The verses in Ephesians 2:8-9 make it clear that we are only able to be followers of God by grace. We have done nothing to earn a spot in His family. In fact, the only thing we are capable of doing is sinning. The only way to be forgiven of our sin is to have an encounter with Jesus Christ. Once we acknowledge this truth, we begin to gain a better understanding of who we are in Christ.
I pray that you don’t take for granted the grace of God. Remember, you would not have a relationship with God if He had not extended His grace to you.
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3 Comments
That's the blessing and the beauty of EE (Evangelism Explosion)! If you want to learn more scripture and feel more comfortable sharing Jesus with those who do not yet have a personal relationship with him.....that's the way to go! I never knew Ephesians 2:8-9 till then. I was a new born again Christian and wanted to share my newly found love of Him with others and EE made it so simple, low keyed, non-threatening and understandable for those who wanted to share but didn't feel comfortable doing so. Do I remember All the scriptures from 30 years ago? No....but I certainly feel more comfortable sharing how He saved me and gave me the opportunity to a new life in Him! And, being in sales, on the phone, He's put more people in my path to have prayer with and give encouragement to than I would have ever guessed. I am truly blessed! You will be too!
And there is Ephesians 6:14-18 putting on the Armor of God each day.
God is showing me every day more of How much He Loves Me. I Thank YOU Father.. PRAISE JESUS !