Merit or Grace?

Merit or Grace?

For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 1:9 NLT

Have you ever wondered why salvation and holiness are fundamental requirements of your walk with God, if you really claim to be a child of God? Have you considered why God does not leave the issue of our walk with him to the whims and caprices of the human heart? Check out the price God paid to get us where we are today - he gave up his one and only son, Jesus, so he could pay the price and penalty for sin that we could not pay. The life was taken, the blood was shed, the penalty was fully discharged, and a new order established. Because we did not have to pay the penalty, we have come into a new realm of possibilities with God. Because we have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus, we have been brought into a new standing with God. He places a demand on us, asking that we live lives that point out his power, mercy and grace. He asks us to live holy lives, in appreciation of his sacrifice. That has always been his plan - the redemption of man from sin and the sealing of his eternal hope.

One thing is clear-in all of the things said above, there is no where that ability, qualification or capacity is established or emphasized. What could we have done to merit this things that God did in our lives? What could we have given up so we could take hold of what God had given? What could we give back to God that would be adequate compensation for all he has done for us? What he expects is what has been highlighted above - live holy lives. Holiness is a nature of God, and it signifies total dependence on God, total obedience to his Word, being clean within and without, and seeking to please God everyday.

The world has seen all of the ordinary and the usual. It is time for us who claim to know God to show them the extraordinary. The world will notice the difference in focus and pursuits, and seek to know God more. Is my life reflecting these priorities? His time of favour is here.