đź“– Scripture Focus
“It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” – Ephesians 2:8
Devotional Message – Day 4
There’s something inside us that wants to earn it.
God’s approval. His affection. His presence. We treat intimacy with Him like a reward—something we unlock if we pray long enough, behave well enough, or push ourselves to be better.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to earn what’s already yours.
Grace isn’t a transaction. It’s a gift. And God’s presence isn’t a trophy for the holy—it’s a promise to the willing. You may feel like you have to clean yourself up before you come to Him, but that’s not the Gospel. The Gospel is Jesus stepping into your mess before you even think to ask.
You don’t have to pray harder, fast longer, or “feel more spiritual” to be close to God. You just have to show up honestly. He’s not impressed by your performance—He’s moved by your presence.
So stop striving. Take off the spiritual pressure.
Let grace carry you back to Him.
Reflection Prompt
Do you feel like you need to "earn" God’s attention or closeness? Where do you sense yourself striving instead of resting?
Prayer
Lord, I confess—I’ve been trying to prove myself to You. But Your love isn’t something I earn, it’s something I receive. Teach me to rest in grace. Remind me that I am already accepted. Amen.
Closer Still – Action Step
Today, take 10 minutes and sit with God without doing anything “spiritual.” No checklist. No performance. Just show up and be still with Him.
LET’S TALKÂ
Do you ever feel like you have to earn your closeness with God?
What helps you shift from striving to resting in grace?
Let’s share and support one another in the comments.