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A meditation on Grace
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What is God’s grace? Among the definitions in Webster’s New World Dictionary is "goodwill" and "the love and favor of God towards human beings". In the Greek the word is charis which means "benefit given". The just and unjust are the beneficiaries of God’s grace. His love is directed at the world not just a selected few (see Mat 5:45, John 3:16 1stPet 3:18). "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God," explains Paul (Romans 8:23). Believers however are "justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is Jesus Christ."
Grace can take on many forms: protection, healing, renewed strength or provision in times of scarcity. For some, grace breeds expectation instead of gratitude. For example, there are those believers who are perpetual victims, indulging in behavior that constantly puts them in dire need of God’s mercy and charity. This mindset was basis of one of the temptations Satan put before Jesus (see Matthew 4:6-7). Aware of the Father’s love, Christ reminded the deceiver that "Thou shall not tempt the Lord thy God." Simply put, we must not dare God to rescue us. Still others are so focused on prosperity that they gamble, chant scripture and nag the Father, expecting blessings to manifest like a genie’s wishes. This is offensive to God.
However, the father’s benevolence is truly the source of our power and strength. This especially true when there is a sinful behavior we can’t seem to get free of—no matter how often we repent of it. Paul referred to this as a "thorn in the flesh". The Apostle pleaded with the Lord to remove it but God allowed the situation to continue revealing "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." (2nd Corinthians 12:7-9). In essence, God gives us the grace to endure a situation while we grow to spiritual maturity.
Yet, there is something to be said about moving beyond grace. I am talking about rising above your circumstances and receiving restoration so that you can be a vessel He can use. Don’t be defined by victimization or greed. Also be aware that the devil will use guilt to keep you stagnant, causing you to ignore grace or take it for granted. Romans 8:01 offers clarity: "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." Today as you receive His favor to face difficulty or meet goals I challenge you to meditate on importance of being grateful for this gift. It is awe-inspiring how God lavishes His grace upon us freely and undeservedly.
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