For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. – Ephesians 2:8-9
The Nature of Unmerited Favor
When we talk about unmerited favor, we mean grace—a gift that we cannot earn or deserve. It is a beautiful truth of our faith that God’s love towards us doesn’t depend on our actions or worthiness. Instead, it is a reflection of His character, which leads Him to bless us beyond what we could ever imagine or merit. We often find ourselves in moments of feeling unworthy, but in those times, we can remember that God’s love shines brightest in our imperfections, reminding us that we are accepted and cherished as His children. His unmerited favor invites us into a relationship filled with hope, grace, and abundant blessings.
Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8
2 Timothy 1:9
Who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. – 2 Timothy 1:9
Titus 3:5
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
John 1:16
And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. – John 1:16
Hebrews 4:16
Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. – Hebrews 4:16
The Role of Grace in Our Lives
Grace is essential in understanding how God relates to us and how we ought to relate to others. It teaches us that no one is beyond redemption and that we perhaps should share this glorious gift with those who are around us. We can find comfort in knowing that everyone, including ourselves, can experience this incredible unmerited favor. As we come to others with this same grace we have received, we arm ourselves with compassion and understanding. We are empowered to be conduits of grace in our communities and families, allowing God’s love to flow through us.
Romans 3:24
Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. – Romans 3:24
Galatians 2:21
I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain. – Galatians 2:21
John 8:10-11
When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” – John 8:10-11
1 Peter 5:10
But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. – 1 Peter 5:10
Colossians 1:6
Which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth. – Colossians 1:6
The Significance of Faith in Grace
Grace and faith work hand in hand. While God’s unmerited favor is what saves us, our faith is the means by which we receive this gift. It’s a deep trust and a profound belief in God’s goodness that guides our heart and actions. We are encouraged to cultivate our faith so that we can embrace the fullness of His unmerited favor in our lives. Faith opens the door for grace to flood in and transform us, offering hope where there was despair and life where there was death. It reminds us that we do not have to navigate life alone, but can depend on God’s grace through all circumstances.
Ephesians 3:12
In whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. – Ephesians 3:12
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1
Romans 4:16
Therefore it is of faith that it might be according to grace, so that the promise might be sure to all the seed, not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all. – Romans 4:16
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight. – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Galatians 3:26
For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. – Galatians 3:26
Experiencing unmerited favor ourselves motivates us to extend grace to others. We recognize that everyone we encounter is on their own journey, and just as we have been blessed beyond measure, so can we offer that blessing to others. By showing love, understanding, and forgiveness, we embody the grace we’ve received. It is an essential part of living out our Christian faith—encouraging one another and building each other up, just as Christ does for us. Our ability to share grace will lead to deeper relationships and a more profound understanding of God’s love in our lives.
Matthew 6:14-15
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. – Matthew 6:14-15
Luke 6:36
Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. – Luke 6:36
Colossians 3:13
Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. – Colossians 3:13
James 4:6
But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” – James 4:6
Proverbs 11:17
The merciful man does good for his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh. – Proverbs 11:17
How do we respond to the unmerited favor we receive from God? Our lives should demonstrate our gratitude and love for Him by living according to His Word and principles. We are called to become ambassadors of His grace, sharing the hope and message of Christ with others. Moreover, our actions should reflect the love we’ve accepted from Him, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Living in response to God’s grace means acknowledging our need for dependence on Him and serving others as a testament to His faithfulness in our lives.
Philippians 2:12-13
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. – Philippians 2:12-13
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. – 1 Corinthians 15:10
Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. – Romans 12:1
Galatians 5:13
For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. – Galatians 5:13
Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
Final Thoughts
Unmerited favor is one of the greatest gifts we can receive from God. It is a reminder that we are loved beyond our mistakes and shortcomings. This grace empowers us to approach life with confidence. The beautiful thing about unmerited favor is that it enables us not just to embrace our own worth but also to extend that love to those around us. Let’s carry this truth in our hearts and share it with each other, creating a community filled with love, kindness, and understanding. As we reflect on our lives, let us remember how far God’s grace has brought us and lift each other as we walk together in faith.
If you enjoyed this topic, you might be interested in exploring more on faith in our lives or read about how to show love to others.