Now Is the Time of God’s Favor
“21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
1 As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2 For he says,
“In the time of my favor I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you.”
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”
Jesus’ death was not merely a historical event but the act by which He took upon Himself the sins of humanity. The Apostle Paul describes Jesus’ death as having happened “on our behalf,” thereby opening the way for us to be reconciled to God. This saving grace comes not from human effort or merit, but from God’s complete sovereignty—it is the heart of the gospel.
Paul then urges believers not to receive God’s grace in vain. The Christian life should be a daily confession and experience of Christ’s death and resurrection, not merely a memory of past salvation or a point of pride. Grace must be freshly realized each day and continually embraced in our lives. Citing Isaiah, Paul proclaims, “Now is the favorable time; now is the day of salvation.” The saving grace already inaugurated by Christ’s death must influence every moment of our lives.
The Christian life, therefore, is not about resting on the memory of a salvation moment in the past. Instead, it is about confessing the grace we have received through Jesus’ death every day and responding to that grace on a continuing journey of faith. As we do so, we praise God’s love and are equipped to respond in faith when confronted with challenges.
Today, let us not receive this grace in vain. Let us dwell deeply on the grace offered through Jesus’ death and resurrection, and resolve to live in that grace. May every moment of our lives be filled with confession and praise that reflect God’s grace.
Prayer: Lord, we offer gratitude and praise for Your great love and saving grace that encompass our lives. Even amid trials and uncertainties, we trust in the power of the cross and seek to live a life worthy of Your grace. May bold and close communion with You fill us with hope and renewed commitment. By the Holy Spirit’s power, help us to live joyfully as those who have tasted Your saving grace. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)
Devotional content is available on the Our Daily Bread website.