God’s Transformative Love

Love comes before the improvement project

C.S. Lewis’s words have a way of piercing through the complexities of faith, illuminating truths that resonate deep within our souls. One such gem of wisdom is found in his profound statement: "The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because he loves us."

We can spend a lifetime trying to become lovable enough for God. The Gospel turns that exhausting project toward grace. God’s love calls us into change; it is not a paycheck issued after we have finally behaved well enough.

This truth finds resonance in Scripture, where we are reminded of God's relentless pursuit of His people and His desire to transform us from the inside out. In Romans 5:8, we read, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (NIV). This verse underscores the reality that God's love is not dependent on our righteousness but is extended to us even in our brokenness and rebellion.

Grace leaves little room for boasting

Furthermore, Ephesians 2:8-9 affirms this principle of grace: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast" (NIV). Our salvation is not the result of our own efforts or goodness but is solely a product of God's grace, received through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.

Gratitude changes the reason we pursue what is good. We seek to honor God because we have received love, not because we are bargaining for it. Growth still takes attention, repentance, and practice. Grace gives us somewhere to stand while we do that work.

Receive grace. Then practice it.

Name one place where you have been trying to earn love through performance. Bring it honestly to God. Then offer someone else the patience you have needed yourself. A transformed life should become easier to recognize in the way it loves.

Faith, hope, and love in action through Christ and kindness. Raise a Hand. Build a Bridge. Find a local ministry and put what you believe into practice.