For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 6:23
Do you want to spend your entire life working toward something, only to receive death in the end? Or would you rather receive eternal life as a free gift, with no effort required on your part?
The Struggle with Grace
Surprisingly, many people wrestle with this simple choice. We often believe that if we do enough good things, God will accept us and welcome us into heaven. So we try to tip the scales in our favor by doing more good than bad, hoping that God will be pleased with the balance.
Why Good Deeds Aren’t Enough
The problem is, one single sin outweighs even our best efforts. God is holy and perfect, and no amount of goodness can impress or sway Him. The scales we imagine simply don’t work. Our righteous acts are never enough to meet God’s standard.
The Gift of Eternal Life
But here’s the good news—God, in His perfect love and mercy, doesn’t leave us stuck trying to earn what we never could. Instead of requiring us to tip the scales, He removes them entirely. Eternal life isn’t earned; it’s offered as a gift.
No Strings Attached
There’s no measuring, comparing, or achieving involved. God says, “Stop trying to earn it—just receive it. I love you, and I want you with Me forever.” It’s a gift, given freely, not based on what we’ve done, but based entirely on who He is.
Children of God by Grace
When we accept this gift, we become God’s children—not by works, rituals, or personal merit, but by grace alone. Eternal life is not a reward for our effort. It’s a reflection of God’s love and desire to be with us. All we need to do is receive it.