Day 17: Finding Freedom in God’s Grace: Embracing Everyday Obedience

Let’s take a moment today to be with God. If you want to do this as a family, we encourage you to set aside time after your own quiet time to go through the family content at the bottom together.

PAUSE

“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. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”—Ephesians 2:8–10 (NIV)

In our walk with God, we often focus on discovering His will for our lives, and while that’s important, it can sometimes become overly complicated. God’s will can often be found in the simple act of obeying Him in everyday situations. Just like a parent giving freedom to their children within safe boundaries, God calls us to live within His guidelines, trusting Him in the mundane and in the specific tasks He asks us to do.

Ephesians 2:8–10 reminds us that we’re saved by grace, not by works, and that we’re His “masterpiece” created to do good works. These good works don’t always have to be grand or extraordinary. They can be in everyday moments, showing love, kindness, and service to others.

PONDER

What are some everyday actions that reflect God’s love and obedience to His will? Beyond your personal time with God, how can you love others in practical ways? Reflect on the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22–23 and ask yourself, “How can I live these virtues today?”

PRAY

Father God, thank You for being such a kind and patient parent. I’m grateful for the grace You’ve shown me and for the simple, everyday opportunities to obey You. Help me to see people around me who need love or encouragement. Give me the heart to be generous, courageous, and to serve others in Your name. Thank You for saving me and for preparing good works for me to do today. May I walk in those works with humility and joy. Amen.

For Your Family

PAUSE

Read Ephesians 2:8–10 out loud with your kids. Whether you go on a walk, talk in the car, discuss at dinner, or gather before bed, choose a time in your day to discuss and pray together.

PONDER

Share the main idea with them.

• God calls us His masterpiece and prepared good works for us to do.

Ask them:

• What does it mean that God calls you His masterpiece, and what are some good works you think He’s planned for you to do?

PRAY

Guide your children to pray using these prayer points.

• Thank God for making you wonderfully and with a purpose.
• Ask God to help you see the good works you can do every day for Him and others.
• Pray for others to see they’re God’s masterpiece, too.

Pray this over your children:

Father God, thank You for being a perfectly kind parent. Thank You that I get to be my kids (name them) parent—it’s the greatest blessing in the world. I pray You help them grow in obedience, courage, and in loving You and others. Thank You for loving them so much. Amen.