My mind is elsewhere this morning. (Ever been there?) I received a text late last night asking me to pray this morning at the S-OCS teacher’s breakfast. WOW! I consider that an honor. I was asked, they said, because of my involvement with the school and both teachers and students know me. I was stunned. I do what I do at the school-read to the K classes, lead the church to pray for a new educator each week, attend games-not for recognition, but for the sheer joy of it. No ulterior motive. So my mind is on the prayer. It also says something about a school district that would open a teacher’s breakfast with prayer.
But something has been niggling at me in the back of my mind. So many people think salvation is earned initially, and even continued by what we do. How much good can I do or do I need/have to do to be saved? How much good can I or do I need/have to do to stay saved?
The answer to all of that is very simple and wrapped in a simple statement:
Salvation is not based on what I do or have done; salvation is based on what Christ has done for me.
That is true at the moment of salvation; it is true on a daily basis as we try to “live out” our salvation; and it will be true in the end. To put it another way: I have been saved by grace; I am now being saved by grace; and I will ultimately be saved by grace.
No works can save you-past, present, or future. All we do should come out of us as a result of our salvation. Did you know that? Do you have that reassurance?
I sure do, Bill. Your prayer will be powerful because it will come from no ulterior motive. You, my friend, are a VERY special pastor. Enjoy your time this morning and know Abba hears the words you will pray. God bless you, Bill.
Thank you for the very kind words Diane. I’m humbled you would say them.
Praying for you this morning, Bill. I know everything will go fine and God will give you the words. And thank you for the reminder that Jesus paid it all.
Thank you Pam for your prayers. I am back and although I felt it was inadequate, I am hoping for a good year.
Grace is a wonderful thing!
Yes it is my friend.
Amen, Bill! By God’s grace we are saved, and that knowledge should propel us to serve Him and others because it is who we are now because of salvation.
And what a breath of fresh air it is that prayer is desired at a school system’s year beginning. Wow! It looks like God is winning, doesn’t it?
Blessings!
I love talking and writing about grace Martha. And it is a breath of fresh air. I can remember DeGarmo and Key doing a song about taking prayer out of school and we will pay the price. How prophetic! Let’s pray for a turnaround.
I am just thrilled to hear that the school ask you to come and pray, that just makes my heart smile and I offer praise up to the Lord. I am sure Bill your pray was one of thoughtfulness and filled with grace. Taking pray out of school and removing God’s hand from the schools has had no end of troubles, asking for prayers this year, I cannot stop smiling, prayers answered for sure.
Thanks for the encouraging words Gail. I am praying they were helpful words to start the year.
Well somebody up there like you! 🙂
Salvation is an amazing thing. Just to think of WHAT has been done for us. WOW!!!!
If referring to God then i would say He loves me. If referring to the school admin I would agree. Not sure why though. 🙂 And yes, salvation is an amazing thing.
I know I am super late in seeing this, but congratulations on having the honor of praying at that event! And yes, that is quite remarkable that a school would allow that in this evil day and time. I know your prayer was a blessing, and there is a good reason they all know you and wanted to honor you in this way. God is using your influence, Pastor Bill! May He continue to bless you with opportunities to share the Gospel.
Better late than never right? 🙂 Thanks Cheryl for the kind words. I was honored to pray for the teachers. I received a call Sunday morning while studying from a teacher who thanked me and asked that I pray for her sister and mother. I didn’t even realize that even two weeks later than people would remember. I’m blessed for sure.