When Good Deeds Don’t Matter

Daily Devotional – Sunday, December 22, 2024
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy, He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:5 (NKJV)

From an early age, we learn that our worth is based on our actions, accomplishments, and efforts. In spiritual matters, though, we cannot earn salvation. It is God’s unconditional love that saves us. Our good deeds don’t matter, a matter that goes against conventional human wisdom and practice.

Not by Works of Righteousness

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit cleanses our sin-tainted souls, just as water is necessary to cleanse a physically filthy person. The term “rebirth” alludes to Christ’s gift of new life to those who accept Him. We are spiritually changed and born anew. We are still being molded into the likeness of Christ by the Holy Spirit.

Furthermore, the core of our salvation is God’s mercy. It is a free gift from a loving Father who wants to repair us. We could never earn it, and we don’t deserve it. We can hold onto the knowledge that our salvation is founded entirely on God’s compassion and not on our own merits. This realization comes in handy, especially when feelings of inadequacy, shame, and guilt try to overcome us.

When Good Deeds Don’t Matter

Take a moment today to consider how merciful God has been to you. When you battle emotions of unfitness and inadequacy, keep in mind that God’s grace, made possible by Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, is what will ultimately save you, not your deeds. Trust that God’s mercy is sufficient and let the Holy Spirit carry out His regenerative work in you.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am grateful that my salvation is a result of Your immense mercy and not by works of righteousness that I have done.