“Ho, every one that thirsts, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat;
yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”
(Isaiah 55:1)
If we are honest with ourselves, even though we know what Scripture says on the matter, many Christians still hold onto the notion that we have to earn God’s love. It’s easy enough to understand why this is so. First of all, God tells us to strive for holiness (1 Peter 1:16). So we know this is what he expects of us. But we are also surrounded in life by merit-based rewards. Whether it’s a new job, a promotion, or even the favorable attention of a parent, spouse, or friend, these benefits are often earned based on behavior.
However, when it comes to God’s love, mercy, and grace we must remind ourselves that we can never earn these blessings. Ever. That truth is never more obvious than when God rescues a soul drowning in sin. He pulls us from the dark murky waters of death and destruction to the safe, solid ground of His lovingkindness and the warm light of His tender mercies. And this life-saving rescue has absolutely nothing to do with anything good in us. It is not effected by our own merits, efforts, energies, or anything else we might be able to muster. It is solely and completely accomplished through God’s abundant love and boundless grace.
It is appropriately humbling to remember that when we are at our worst, when we feel hopelessly lost and undone, God sees us through His eyes of compassion and mercy. And He chooses, completely of His own accord, to save us. Saving faith is a gift, not an achievement, designed by God to eliminate all boasting. “By grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast,” (Eph. 2:8-9).
So rather than entertaining the idea that one more good deed might cause God to love you a bit more, be reminded that for believers, God loves you infinitely already. Even when we falter and take His love for granted, His grace and love toward us remain unchanged. Acknowledgement of such a reality, however, should urge us to live “holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God,” (Rom. 12:1-2).
There is also a message here for those outside the family of God. Don’t wait to come to Christ until you feel “worthy,” because God’s grace meets you in your imperfections. Understand that everything you need, everything you lack is to be found in Christ. Simply believe that God’s mercy is not based on who you are but who He is. Then embrace His grace. Cherish it. “See the infinite love of Christ to penitent sinners, in that when he hung upon the tree, and was paying dear for man’s sin, he did not reject the thief’s petition. Shall he not hear us now that all is paid and finished?”[1]
Contemplations:
- A Heartfelt Thanks: Lord, I am in awe of Your grace. I did nothing to deserve it, yet You’ve showered me with unmerited favor. Teach me to live with gratitude, never taking Your love for granted.
- Seeking Grace in Imperfection: Father, in my weaknesses I sometimes think I need to earn Your love. Remind me daily that Your grace covers me as I am, flaws and all.
- The Invitation: Jesus, You invite us to come, thirsty and broken, to drink from Your well of grace. Help me embrace Your call, knowing I need not bring anything but a willing heart.
- All for His Glory: God, every act of mercy and grace You’ve shown is for Your glory, not mine. I surrender my pride and self-worth, placing all my trust in Your boundless love. Be glorified in me.
Further references for Isa. 55:1:
John 7:37; Rev. 21:6; Joel. 3:18; Psalm 63:1
[1] John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition Upon the Four Evangelists, (London: A.M. for John Bellamie, at the sign of the three golden-Lions near the Royall-Exchange, 1647), 108.
