And God is able to make all grace abound to you so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8
What do you think of when you hear the expression “God’s grace”? Do you think of God’s “unmerited favor” toward us? Does “for by grace are you saved” come to mind? Grace impacts every aspect of God’s dealing with humanity.
God's grace is truly amazing. Our salvation is not because of anything we have done, or are even capable of doing. It is solely a matter of God's grace. He offered His salvation to us simply as an act of His grace. Romans 3:23-24 says “... for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus…”
Not only does it provide for our salvation, it enables us to live an abundant life in Jesus Christ. Grace can come in the form of divine assistance given to us to do the things we cannot do through our own strength. I have many human frailties that are a struggle for me, therefore it is something I personally need each and every day. When I look back on my life and especially during the times I have dared to step out in faith, I am very aware that God has always been there directing my steps and providing the help He knew I would need. Moving forward, I know that I can do so without fear because as I commit my day to Him, I can totally depend on God’s Grace.
Do we as believers deserve this Grace? Is it because we are good people? No. It is a kindness from God that we don’t deserve. There is nothing we have done, nor can ever do to earn this grace. It is a gift from God called divine favour. God's grace is available to us at all times, for every problem and need we face. God's grace enables us to be all that God intends us to be.
God is gracious. Graciousness is not something that He puts on and takes off depending on the situation. He is always gracious. He does not decide to show us grace. Rather it is just who He is. Because He is gracious He demonstrates grace in everything He does. Every action of God toward us involves His grace. His creation, His providence, His conviction of the sinner, His gift of salvation, His equipping of the saints, and the future He has prepared for us. All of this is due to God's grace.
Grace and mercy are similar expressions of His favour and love.
When we experience God's grace, we receive favour that we do not deserve.
When we experience God's mercy, we are spared punishment that we do deserve.
God’s grace, love and mercy are three attributes that are closely related. And it is common to see them used together.
“But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians 2:4-5
We come into His presence because of His grace. And Romans 5:1-2 tells us we are justified and continue to stand in His presence because of his grace. How amazing is it to be able to know and experience God’s favour toward us every day of our lives.
In 1 Peter 4:10 we see we are to be faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms, using our gifts to serve one another. God's grace is reflected in our lives through His equipping of believers to serve within the body of Christ; with our spiritual giftings.
Grace does not come just to a lucky few. But is available to all who are in Christ. When I am in Christ, God's grace surrounds me. But just because it surrounds me does not mean that I either experience or enjoy it as much as I should. It requires action on my part. How?
Be strong in God's grace. It requires exercise to be strong. You have to work at it.
Recognize that God is for you. That He wants what is best for you.
Trust Him. Believe that He has your long term best interest in mind.
Let go of self, of doing things your way, and of depending on your own resources. As you do, depending on God instead, you will grow stronger in His grace.
Praise God for His all-encompassing grace. His grace that reached even one like me. And it is His grace that keeps me safe and secure in him, both now and through eternity. It's all about God's overwhelming grace.
But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
I am not only amazed by God’s grace but I am also enabled by God’s grace, each and every day. Because of God’s grace, I can face the future UNAFRAID!
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