For the Christian, understanding the difference between the old and new covenants is essential to success. Under the law, obeying God was demonstrated by actions; under grace, it is now shown by our belief in Jesus Christ. We no longer need to earn God’s favor; living a life of grace is all about receiving, not achieving. When Jesus shed His blood and died on the cross, He achieved everything we will ever need in life; the achievements are now finished. Our faith in God’s love for us, which is why He sent His Son, positions us to receive from Him. Under grace, doing is still important, but the order of things has changed. Believing in God’s love and embracing it enables us to do the right things not out of mechanical habit, but because of our reliance on Him.