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 explains how the desires of our sinful flesh influence us. No one is exempt from this; everyone is equally guilty and deserving of your wrath and punishment. What a dreadful situation to be in, with no way on our own to escape your punishment.
However, you did not abandon us there. Because of your immense grace and mercy, you have saved us. You sent your Son to take our sins upon Himself and endure our punishment. He died on the cross in our place so that everyone who believes in Jesus is also raised with Him to eternal life and is no longer dead in their sins. Your grace—unearned and undeserved—has restored us to you. Jesus fully paid the debt of our sins, and faith in Him receives the gifts for us.
Therefore, through faith in Christ, no sin remains; we are forgiven because of your tender love and mercy. Please give us opportunities to share your grace and mercy with those still trapped in their sins. Provide us with the words to speak so they may come to know, trust, and believe that Jesus died for their sins, and kindly grant them salvation and eternal life—for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
We are saved through God’s grace and loving mercy; salvation comes to each person only by faith alone in Christ Jesus.