The Great Element of Saving Power, March 29

The Character of God Revealed

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8, 9.FLB 94.1

Grace is an attribute of God exercised toward undeserving human beings. We did not seek for it, but it was sent in search of us.^{122The Ministry of Healing, 161.}FLB 94.2

Divine grace is the great element of saving power; without it all human effort is unavailing.^{123Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 538.}FLB 94.3

Are you in Christ? Not if you do not acknowledge yourselves erring, helpless, condemned sinners. Not if you are exalting and glorifying self. If there is any good in you, it is wholly attributable to the mercy of a compassionate Saviour. Your birth, your reputation, your wealth, your talents, your virtues, your piety, your philanthropy, or anything else in you or connected with you, will not form a bond of union between your soul and Christ. Your connection with the church, the manner in which your brethren regard you, will be of no avail unless you believe in Christ. It is not enough to believe about Him; you must believe in Him. You must rely wholly upon His saving grace.^{124Testimonies for the Church 5:48, 49.}FLB 94.4

Would that you could conceive of the rich supplies of grace and power awaiting your demand.^{125Testimonies for the Church 5:17.}FLB 94.5

In the matchless gift of His Son, God has encircled the whole world with an atmosphere of grace as real as the air which circulates around the globe. All who choose to breathe this life-giving atmosphere will live, and grow up to the stature of men and women in Christ Jesus.^{126Steps to Christ, 68.}FLB 94.6

Christ ... died for us. He does not treat us according to our desert. Although our sins have merited condemnation, He does not condemn us. Year after year He has borne with our weakness and ignorance, with our ingratitude and waywardness. Notwithstanding our wanderings, ... His hand is stretched out still.^{127The Ministry of Healing, 161.}FLB 94.7

Through the grace of Christ we may accomplish everything that God requires.^{128Christ's Object Lessons, 301.}FLB 94.8