Grace Is Not Earned

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV

At school, a strong report card comes from studying hard to achieve good grades. At work, a paycheck or weekly allowance is earned through finishing each day’s job. We try to look good, act nice, and please people to make friends. If we become successful or popular, it’s tempting to feel proud of what our efforts have accomplished.

Yet no matter how we try, we can’t earn God’s love. Following the rules, sharing with others, and going to church won’t make us more welcome in heaven. Our salvation isn’t paid for by our good behavior—it’s a free gift from God.

Is there a penalty for our sins? Yes. Can we do enough good to cover our sins? No. Our sin-debt was fully paid by Jesus’ death on the cross. God invites us to receive the gift of life by trusting in Jesus. Instead of bragging about our goodness, we praise God for His free gift of life and love.