But, God...

Ephesians 2:4-5; Romans 3:20-22

Verse 4 probably utters two of the greatest words in the Bible for us: “But God!” We were dead, but God made us alive in Christ! We were not merely in need of a helping hand or gentle push. We were spiritually lifeless, without a religious pulse, and stone cold dead. But God, being rich in mercy, gave love to the loveless, gave life to the lifeless, and is abundantly merciful to those deserving no mercy.  The penalty of sin and its power over those in Christ was mercifully destroyed by God’s gracious plan of redemption. Through faith in Christ we stand not guilty before God. (Romans 3:20-22). Salvation for the underserving sinner is for God’s glory by putting on display his boundless mercy and love for those that are spiritually dead. That is why we worship God alone and take no credit for any of this. That is precisely why it says, “But God…”


Questions for further thought:
1. In what ways am I experiencing the freedom that God’s mercy has afforded me? 

2. What steps will I take to get alone with God and confess my sin and thank Him personally? When will I do that?


Challenge: Read Romans 3 and meditate on the truth that is found in this passage.