For by Grace

Ephesians 1:8-9 are probably 2 of the most familiar verses of Ephesians. And to read them this morning, with all the studying of Ephesians I've done to this point, it's almost a no brainer. It's more of a recap of everything up to this point. But it is a clear set of verses to remind us we are saved by grace, not by anything we did.

Really, I take comfort in that. If it was up to something I did or had to do, I'm afraid I'd fail. Actually I know I'd fail (no power of death). God's grace saves us. Salvation is a gift from Him. And, in case you are doubting the fact that you had no part in your salvation, these verses make it clear. "And this is not your own doing...not a result of works, so that no one may boast." You didn't do anything to gain your salvation.

Verse 10 goes on to tell us that "we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for His good works." We are to walk in these good works. So, those of you who are thinking there is something you have to do, you are right. You can't do anything to earn your salvation, but once saved we must walk in His good works. These good works God created beforehand for us to walk in them. We better be recognizing the opportunities to glorify Him with them. Once saved by grace, we are to do what God designed us and saved us to do. Glorify Him.

Praise God for His Grace.