Ephesians 2:3-5
Formerly, we all lived among them in the passions of our sinful flesh, as we carried out the desires of the sinful flesh and its thoughts. Like all the others, we were by nature objects of God’s wrath. But God, because he is rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your forgiveness. Paul clearly articulates how the desires of our sinful flesh drive us along. No one is innocent of this; all are equally guilty and deserve your wrath and punishment. What a horrible state to be in, with no way on our own to overcome your punishment.
However, you did not leave us there. Because of your tremendous grace and mercy, you have saved us. You sent your Son to take our sins into himself and to suffer our punishment. He died on the cross in our place so that each person who believes in Jesus is also raised with him to everlasting life and no longer dead in our trespasses. Your grace—which is undeserved—has reunited us with you, and our sins’ debt is paid in full by Jesus.
No sin remains; we are forgiven according to your tender love and mercy. Please give us opportunities to share your grace and mercy with those who remain trapped in their sins. Give us the words to share with them so that they will receive a faith that knows, trusts, and believes Jesus has died for their sins, and please grant them salvation and eternal life—for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
We are saved by God’s grace and loving mercy; salvation comes to each person only by faith alone in Christ Jesus.