Gift of God

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

Having just wrapped up the Christmas season, hopefully you experienced gifts being exchanged, the joy of watching loved ones open their treasures and feeling the spirit of Christmas. This holiday is intended to be a celebration of the greatest gift ever given – Jesus.

Jesus is God’s gift to the world. We didn’t do anything to deserve this wonderful present, in fact it’s only because of the mercy of God that we have been given this priceless gift of grace. Just think about it, your sin debt fully paid. The death penalty for your sin removed and new life granted. Your slate has been wiped clean, whiter than the snow outside and all you need to do is accept it by faith.

Nothing can be added to this gift to make it any better. Not good works, not good thoughts or intentions, not right living – nothing. Adding those things only makes it about us and takes the focus off the One who made salvation possible….Jesus.

When we accept this gift of grace by faith it continues to bless us in the way it will change our character. Living for God instead of ourselves develops the Godly character that makes us more like Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

Have you accepted this amazing Gift of God? Perhaps you want to recommit and remember the joy you experienced when you first gave your life to Christ. I invite you to pray this prayer with me and experience all that He has for you in the New Year ahead.

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus’ name, amen.