Read: Ephesians 2:4-10
Let’s kick off this journey by acknowledging something vital: God’s grace. Ephesians 2:4–10 tells us we’re saved by grace, not by our own deeds. This may sound like a religious catchphrase, but it’s far more profound. Think about it this way: grace is like a parent’s unconditional love, given without expectation of payback.
I love how Max Lucado writes about it. He says, “The grace of God is more than we deserve and greater than we imagine.” It’s not an abstract theological concept but an authentic, personal experience of God’s love and favor. And just like parents help their kids grow, God’s grace helps us grow spiritually.
Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the feeling that we must earn God’s favor and be good enough to deserve His love. We might feel the pressure to perform, to prove ourselves, to strive for some unreachable standard of perfection. But here’s the beautiful truth: His love and mercy aren’t something we earn. They’re gifts He freely gives.
Consider how this changes how we approach our lives and spiritual growth. Instead of striving to earn God’s approval, we can rest in the assurance of His unconditional love. Instead of living in fear of failure, we can live in the freedom of His grace. That’s the transformative power of grace.
As we move forward on this transformation journey, let’s remember that it all begins with grace. We don’t have to strive to earn God’s love; we have to accept it. And as we open ourselves to His grace, we can experience the true power to change. Let’s embrace this journey together, leaning into God’s grace and allowing His love to transform us from the inside out.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean to you that you are saved by grace and not by works?
- How have you seen God’s grace at work in your life?
- In what ways can you be more open to God’s transforming grace?