[boatbums]

While we cannot possibly save ourselves, we can accept, in humility, God's grace that will save us

Amen, preach it brother!!!

When you think about it, why would the word or concept used be "gift" if it could not be accepted? I have given a gift that was rejected in the past, didn't make me feel very good, but it was given freely and could be accepted freely, or not. I can't MAKE someone take a gift.

[Dr. Eckleburg]

Men "receive" the gift of the Holy Spirit. Passive. They don't "accept" it. Active.

Therein is the difference between a works-based salvation and salvation by God's free, merciful gift of grace to whom He will.

[Cronos]

When you think about it, why would the word or concept used be "gift" if it could not be accepted? I have given a gift that was rejected in the past, didn't make me feel very good, but it was given freely and could be accepted freely, or not. I can't MAKE someone take a gift.

Of course, God CAN make us take the gift and happily. but He doesn't. He gives hte choice to reject it. In fact, our God of Love keeps offering the gift to us, over and over again, despite us rejecting it over and over again. Isn't that amazing? God's love for us is truly deeper than the ocean.

And this love for us doesn't make God seem weaker in my eyes, but far more powerful -- you and I are afraid to love other people for fear of rejection, but God has no fear. Wow! That's so incredible when you think of it.