Before and After

We can't be righteous enough or do enough good works to save us. Salvation is a gift (Ephesians 2:8-9).

But, once we're saved, we're different - good works and righteousness become an integral part of our walk (2 Corinthians 5:17). 

Salvation is not a bed we rest on, it's a door opening into a new walk of life.

The sign of genuine faith isn't perfection, but it's a longing to change, a longing to do the right thing, a longing to be more like Christ.

Paul expresses that longing:
"I want to know Christ ... I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me ... Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:10-14 

Genuine faith involves deliberate steps to grow and change:
"Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him." Philippians 2:12-13 

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