[165 words]
Everything we have, and everything we are is a gift of God’s grace (2 Peter 1:3-9). The fullest expression of grace is this: “We, who were once dead in trespasses and sin, but we have been made alive through faith in Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 2:5).
Here is God’s grace in action. “And being found in appearance as a man, (Jesus) humbled himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8). And, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).
But God’s gift does not negate the importance of obedience. Indeed, Faith demands Obedience or it isn’t true faith. “… through whom (Jesus) we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles for His name’s sake” (Romans 1:5).
Thank you, Lord, for your saving grace!
Larry Fitzgerald
Woodlawn church of Christ
Abilene, TX