Just recently, I was reading through one of my favorite scripture passages. Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift from God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Years ago as a college student, I learned a very valuable lesson in my spiritual development. Pete, our CRU director, told me that Ephesians reminds us that we cannot earn our salvation or standing with God through works. Growing up I often tried to be a good religious boy. My efforts were to somehow please God and gain His favor. Pete helped me to see that a life of trusting faith in Jesus was what is truly required of each of us.
I am afraid that growing up I really did not learn to accept gifts from others. My wife Cindy is really good at giving gifts and expecting nothing in return.
My point is that Ephesians 2 is letting us know God took the initiative in sending Christ to do (die for our sins) what we ourselves could never accomplish. Our response to this amazing love is to do the works He has called each of us to do in building up His Kingdom here on earth.
Let’s not try to become religious people who attempt to be people pleasers. Don’t attempt to somehow get God to like us more through our acts of kindness. Each of us should become the best disciple we can through scripture reading, prayer, worship, fellowship, and spirit led ministry.