DAILY DEVOTION, March 4, 2022

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes (Ephesians 1:4, NLT).

Theologians and Bible scholars differ on the meaning of “chose us.” Whatever those words mean in terms of election or predestination, the Bible is clear that our salvation is linked to Jesus. We are to believe in Him to receive salvation (John 3:16. Etc.). The latter part of the verse is also puzzling. Who can measure up to that standard if we are chosen in Christ to be holy and without fault?

While Christians strive to be holy and without fault, we always fall short. The good news is that when we trust in Jesus, God considers us as righteous, faultless. Consider Romans 4:5: “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.”

Faith in Jesus brings forgiveness of sins. Paul says that faith also makes us righteous in the eyes of God. Our attempts to satisfy God by our works forever fall short. However, those who trust in Jesus receive His righteousness as a gift. Our performance (works) is never faultless. However, when God sees our faith in His Son, our sins are forgiven, and God considers us faultless. Don’t attempt to achieve perfection by your efforts. Trust in Jesus.

Father, Your plan to redeem me is amazing! I am an ungodly person, but when I trust Your Son, you consider me godly. I owe everything to Your love and the sacrifice of Your Son. Praise be unto You, O God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen.