It's Not What You Do, It's What He Did
OPENING PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, as we study Your Word today, help us to understand that our salvation is not based on our deeds but on Your finished work on the cross. May Your Spirit guide us and transform us from the inside out. Amen.
"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 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Paul's letter to the Ephesians emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn through our works. This passage highlights the importance of relying on God's grace rather than our own efforts.
The message of Ephesians 2:8-9 is clear: our salvation is entirely by grace through faith. This grace is a gift from God, not something we can achieve through our own efforts. Paul emphasizes that it is "not by works, so that no one can boast." This truth is foundational to our understanding of the Gospel.
In our human nature, we often strive to earn approval and acceptance through our actions. We may think that if we attend church regularly, volunteer, or perform good deeds, we can secure our salvation. However, Paul reminds us that our best efforts are insufficient. Salvation is not a reward for our good behavior but a gift of God's grace.
This grace is made possible through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus lived a sinless life, died a sacrificial death, and rose again, conquering sin and death. His sacrifice paid the penalty for our sins and made a way for us to be reconciled with God. Our role is to receive this gift by faith, trusting in what Jesus has done rather than our own efforts.
Understanding that our salvation is based on what He did, not what we do, brings freedom and humility. It frees us from the pressure to perform and allows us to rest in God's grace. It also humbles us, reminding us that we are entirely dependent on God's mercy and love. Are there areas of your life where you may be relying on your own efforts rather than God's grace? Surrender these areas to God in prayer, asking Him to help you trust in His finished work on the cross.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will let God’s Word remind me of who I am.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Jesus, thank You for Your finished work on the cross and the gift of salvation by grace through faith. Help us to trust in what You have done rather than our own efforts. Free us from the pressure to perform and fill us with Your peace and humility. Amen.