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Ephesians 2:8-9 New Living Translation (NLT)
8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
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Gifts - Tom Selander
I have received many gifts in my 57+ years of life: the gifts of new footballs, baseball gloves, bicycles, phones, televisions, trips, etc..... This is a list of gifts received from many people: my parents, siblings, my wife, my daughters, and friends. Some of the gifts I received as a child for getting an A in class. I received gifts when I graduated high school and college. I received gifts when I was married, and some gifts have come as rewards, such as a monetary bonus for a job well done from employers.
The gifts I remember most, and are the most significant, are the gifts that come from those we are in relationship with. That is how I believe it is with  GOD; our salvation is based on GOD's gift of grace. It began when we believed as it states in the scripture above. GOD's love for us is not based on the good things or works we have done, but His love for us is always there, even when we fall short.
What does GOD ask in return from us? Not much. GOD simply wants us to be in relationship with Him. What does GOD ask of us? How do we do this? We do this by spending time with Him in prayer, study, and action. We need to do this both individually and with others.
During this season of Lent please accept or embrace the gift of salvation we have been given freely from GOD. I believe it is the best gift we ever will receive! What does GOD want us to do with this gift? As JESUS taught us and the Holy Spirit tells us...Share it with others!
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Think about and list the gifts you have received from others that have meant the most or have made you smile...or you get that tear of joy in your eye when you think of them. I believe nothing will compare to the gift of salvation, but the common thread I believe will be they are from those you are in relationship with. Because it's not about the stuff, it's about the love they have for you and you for them.
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| Father GOD, the gift of your grace is freely given to us all; it is given to us by You simply because of Your love for us. I am grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit that continually nudges each of us. So father GOD during this season of Lent, allow me to examine myself, to improve myself to become a stronger more loving advocate for You. Amen |
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