“For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen” (Romans 11:36).

“All things” include repentance and faith. This means that our repentance and faith are free gifts “from” God, “through” God, and “for God. If He has not given us repentance and faith, we would have never repented of sin or trusted Christ as Lord and Savior. But because of His great mercy and grace, God gave us His free gift of repentance and faith. Thus, we have been saved.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this [faith] is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)

“For it has been granted to you on behalf of the Messiah [Jesus]… to believe in Him…” (Philippians 1:29)

“Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 2:25)

“One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.” (Acts 16:14)

Application:

1. Praise and thank God for the free gift of repentance and faith that He has given you, and by which you have been saved.
2. Pray and fast for the salvation of your loved ones, friends, and acquaintances. Ask God to give them His free gift of repentance and faith as well.

Art: The Conversion of Lydia, Greek Orthodox Painting

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