Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading.— Oswald Chambers

 The words “faith” and “grace” are frequently used when discussing Christianity.  What do they mean?

Grace Defined:  The common definition is “unmerited favor,” referring to God’s mercy and compassion for mankind. 

For by grace You have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the  gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may  boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9) (NAS)

Have you ever heard, “life’s not fair!”  Well, that’s true.  If life were fair, we would be condemned to death as a result of our sin.  We don’t deserve the love and compassion of our Creator, but as this verse explains, God wanted to give us the gift of salvation.  He created us, He loves us, and He has saved us!

Faith Defined:   Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.  (Hebrews 11:1-2) (NIV).  Faith is the assurance that God will do what He said He would do. 

The Bible is filled with God’s promises; both promises fulfilled, and promises yet to be completed.  God never breaks a promise and that means we never have to doubt His love for us.

When we choose to believe, we apply our faith by living a life in accordance to this assurance and following His instructions as described in His Word.