Finding Grace in the Eyes of the Lord

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, I want to talk to you about the difference between false and genuine faith.

False faith is often characterized by a mere intellectual belief in God, without any corresponding actions or transformation in our lives. James 2:19 says, « You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. » This verse reminds us that a mere belief in God is not enough. We must also live out our faith through our actions.

In contrast, genuine faith is characterized by a true and living relationship with God. It involves a deep trust in him and a willingness to surrender our lives to his will. It’s not just about believing in God, but about knowing him and experiencing his love and grace. As Romans 10:10 says, « For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. »

Genuine faith also produces good fruit in our lives. As Jesus says in Matthew 7:16, « By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? » This fruit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

So, how do we know if our faith is genuine? One way is to examine our hearts and our actions. Are we living in obedience to God’s word? Are we seeking to love and serve others in the name of Jesus? Are we growing in our relationship with God and experiencing his grace in our lives? These are all signs of genuine faith.

In conclusion, false and genuine faith are two very different things. False faith is characterized by a mere intellectual belief in God, while genuine faith involves a true and living relationship with him that produces good fruit in our lives. May we seek to cultivate a genuine faith that trusts in God, obeys his word, and bears fruit for his kingdom. And may we always remember that it’s not just about believing in God, but about knowing him and experiencing his love and grace in our lives. Amen.

Today, I want to talk to you about finding grace in the eyes of the Lord.

The Bible tells us that we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). We are all in need of God’s grace and forgiveness, which can only be found in Jesus Christ.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we can earn God’s favor through our good deeds and righteous living. But the truth is, we can never be good enough to earn our way into heaven. It’s only through faith in Jesus Christ that we can receive the gift of eternal life and the grace of God.

In Ephesians 2:8-9, it says, « 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. » This verse reminds us that our salvation is not based on our own efforts or merits, but on the grace of God that we receive through faith in Jesus.

But what does it mean to receive this grace? It means acknowledging our need for a savior, confessing our sins, and turning to Jesus in faith. It means surrendering our lives to him and allowing him to transform us from the inside out. It means living a life that reflects the love and grace of God, and sharing the good news of Jesus with others.

As we walk in faith and trust in Jesus, we can be assured that we have found grace in the eyes of the Lord. We can rest in the knowledge that we are saved by his grace and not by our own works. And we can have confidence that we are secure in his love, both now and for all eternity.

In conclusion, let us remember that the grace of God is available to all who turn to Jesus in faith. Let us receive this grace with open hearts and allow it to transform us from the inside out. And let us live our lives in a way that reflects the love and grace of God to all those around us. May we find our hope and security in the grace of the Lord, now and forevermore. Amen.