The phrase "but God" serves as a potent reminder that our redemption is not a result of our own efforts but is entirely dependent on God's actions for us. When we are entangled in our sin, unable to navigate back to the right path, we are assured that God intervenes with His love and grace. This grace is not a reward for our endeavors or a testament to our worthiness; it is bestowed purely out of His love for us in Christ. This encapsulates the essence of salvation by grace alone – it is an unconditional gift from God, freely given without any prerequisites.