​I recently heard a preacher say that salvation is 99% Jesus Christ but 1% us.  I have heard this before.  God does everything necessary for salvation (99%) but we must come, confess, repent, etc. (1%) to accomplish the last part of salvation.  Do you agree?
​
Although I know that theologically this is ridiculous (how could I ever add to Jesus' complete work on the cross!!?), I must admit that this theory appeals to me. I know that I can’t earn my own salvation in any way, but I live my life many times as if it were up to me to maintain that salvation (how do you maintain a gift after all anyway?  Then it is no longer a gift!).  Again, theologically, I know that I can’t lose my salvation, but I think at times that God is somehow more pleased with me when I perform well and less pleased when I fail.

As a teenager, I cringed under the definition of grace.  I thought it was so unfair! I was an obedient, good, well mannered teenager, who didn’t rebel against her parents like other teenagers I knew. I thought it was unfair that God gave them the same grace and forgiveness as a believer that he gave me.  How arrogant and wrong I was!

​​Is it okay to ask God “why”?  I am very familiar with the belief that asking God “why” indicates a lack of faith and trust. It shouldn’t be allowed and worse, if you do ask, then you should be condemned or ostracized by others.  I couldn’t disagree more.

​Are you questioning your suffering right now?  Are you questioning the pain?  I believe it is okay to ask God the big “why” questions.  He certainly is big enough and secure enough as God to handle your doubts.  I do caution you though.  Be on guard as to where the questioning leads.  Does it lead towards God or away from Him?