| Yesterday Afternoon's Bible Study |
"We have been saved according to God's purpose and grace. Our salvation isn't dependent on anything we have ever done or will ever do. Salvation is a gift from God, given to us freely.
When you put in a hard day's work, you earn a paycheck. Grace is the equivalent of not working and still receiving the same payment anyway. Our co-workers would most likely not appreciate that we were given something we didn't deserve. It wouldn't be fair, but grace is given whether or not we are worthy.
We should never look at another believer and compare our good works to what they have or have not done for Christ. In God's eyes, the pastor who preaches to hundreds of souls has the same value as the murderer who accepts Christ on his deathbed. We are made right through God's grace that is given to His children -- and that's all of us.
Salvation is not based on our actions and efforts because we cannot do enough to earn it. We have the opportunity to be saved because of Jesus's work on the cross. God doesn't want us to be burdened by the weight of trying to be better and do more. He simply invites us to come to Him and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us.
So, why does God offer this gift to us? This afternoon's verse tells us that God chose to save us before Jesus came; even before the world began.
God knows everything that has ever happened and everything that will happen. He knew we would need a Savior who could provide a way for us to have a relationship with Him. It was always His plan.
So, whether we accept grace or deny its power in our lives, it is still there waiting for us. Accept it today.
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