I grew up i the ALC which was very biblical and then THE MERGER happened and it all went to hell. We escaped from there to the LCMS. I know God loves me very much because even though I knew the catechism, and had a good biblical background, but it was the LCMS that really got it through my head how salvation really works. There is no sin I may have committed that the blood of Jesus did not take away. IT is a GIFT. All I Have to do is believe. It is so liberating, so simple that everyone should know this promise.
> IT is a GIFT. All I Have to do is believe
And His proclamation created the faith in you. You didn’t even make yourself believe!