Ephesians 2:8-9 says:

"For it is by grace you have been saved,through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."

Hockey players are some of the most hard working athletes around. We arguably have the toughest playoff schedule, one of the longest seasons, and most physically demanding sports. Hockey people are used to getting up early to train and practice in cold rinks on dark winter days. Hockey players work for everything they get. This is an admirable trait, but one that doesn't work when it comes to God's gift to us the grace found through Jesus Christ.

We can't work to get to God. No matter how good we are on the ice or off. Nothing we do can impress God into "liking" us. Our works just won't cut it. In fact, the Bible says that our good works are like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). So, no matter how much we try, we can't get on God's good side apart from Christ.

The awesome part of all this: Christ did the work for us so all we have to do is accept through faith His completed work on the Cross for us. We don't have to constantly work to get God's favor. We don't have to exhaust ourselves to be a part of His team. We can focus our energy on Praising Him, Glorifying Him, and showing others His love in our life. That is pretty cool and is a lot less tiring!!

Some Questions:

1. Have you been working for God's approval?
2. Working hard is not bad. Why do you think Christians should still work hard in the things they do?