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God First, Man Second: Ephesians 2:8-10

Too often we approach scripture with a question. What does this have to say to me? It might sound like a good question, but I don't believe it's the first one we should be asking. What does this say about God? Now that's a great question. With that in mind, I continue my Monday series with the following;

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

You might be thinking this is a great verse all around. You're right, but we actually answer both questions when we start with God.

First, God is a giver. Grace is such a good gift that He gives it to people and tells them it's free.

Second, we learn God created us. Nice job, God! I see you've given us a purpose. Apparently God is a planner. That's good to know.

Figuring this out tells me a lot of what I need to know about me. I've been given a gift I cannot earn, nor should I try. God doesn't want me boasting. Any good works I find to do are part of the plan, but not the payment plan.

Oh, and knowing I'm God's handiwork is a great way to start out the week. What's one promise from God that starts your day out right?
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