Session 17

You don’t have to earn God’s love

From Matthew: A 28-Day Devotional

Past sins and mistakes can weigh us down and make us think we are not worthy of God’s love or we must earn His love. In Matthew 20, Jesus tells the story of workers in a vineyard. The owner of the vineyard hired a set of workers at the start of the day and promised them a set amount of wages. He continued to hire workers throughout the day, and at the end they all were paid the same amount. Jesus told this story to illustrate how God sees and treats His children and to paint a picture of God’s heart toward all of us. 

Each of the men in the story was looking for a job, and the vineyard owner provided a place for them. In the same way, Jesus came to make a way for all who look for Him to be called His children (John 1:12). God desires that all people would be saved, and God gives salvation to those who believe in Jesus (1 Timothy 2:4).

The vineyard owner provided a consistent wage for all workers no matter how long they worked. This payment was not based on work but on a relationship. Just the same, God does not give salvation based on works but based on a relationship with His son, Jesus. His grace is open to all people regardless of past sin (Ephesians 2:8, Romans 8:1).

God extends His grace freely to all. Our past and future mistakes cannot blot out God’s forgiveness, and our good works can’t earn it. God’s generosity is evident through His gift of Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:15). He stands with His arms open to all.

Reflect:

• How has God shown generosity in your life?
•  How is God asking you to model His generosity to others?
• Knowing you cannot outgive God, is He calling you to give more of your time, talent, or treasures?