LIFE GOAL—SALVATION
#2 of 7 devotions in Salvation series
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and not from yourselves, it is a gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
No Sugarcoating devotion urges us to get busy at salvation. The Father enables His kids to come to Jesus (John 6:66). His gift of faith allows us to believe in Jesus—which is required first step of salvation. Salvation—or rescue from eternal death—should be everyone’s life goal.
Belief in Jesus is the beginning of the adventure. For example, spiritual growth is a process. Faith matures, or grows up during a person’s lifetime. Apostle Paul teaches in Philippians 2:12-13: “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (NKJV).
This does not mean that people earn salvation by being good. Good works spring from one’s gratitude and joy, resulting from the gift of salvation. Eager believers advance spiritual growth by actively cooperating with God, shown by this example: Nine year old Miguel got a puppy, and named him Buddy. While Buddy isn’t a pure-bred beagle, Miguel loves him anyway. While we aren’t perfect, God loves us anyway. Let’s contrast Buddy’s and Miguel’s roles in their relationship.
Miguel feeds Buddy and gives him fresh water every day. He walks Buddy on a leash so that he doesn’t run away. Buddy stays safe, warm, and dry in his house that’s protected by a fenced yard. Miguel brushes Buddy’s coat until it shines. Buddy loves to please Miguel, and obeys simple commands. Miguel taught Buddy to fetch a ball, to sit down and shake Miguel’s hand, and to roll over. Miguel cleans up Buddy’s bathroom deposits in the yard. They have fun every day. Their relationship grew into a great friendship, each living out his own role.
While people aren’t dogs, Miguel’s relationship with Buddy mirrors our relationship with God. God is our master, just like Miguel is Buddy’s. God takes care of all our needs—even cleaning up our messes. Buddy works with Miguel instead of resisting, or defying Miguel’s authority. God wants to build a great relationship with each one of His kids, too. He grooms us to shine as His ambassadors, or representatives, to the world.
Take Home Nugget
Salvation is a gift not immediately understood. The wrapping is peeled away when the believer is actively involved. The rest of this Salvation series will peel away layers of wrapping from this awesome gift. Lesson links provide further insight to each devotion.
The Bible says the way to heaven is only one,
And that’s believing in Jesus, God’s Son.
J.D. Griffith
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