FOR BY GRACE YOU HAVE BEEN SAVED THROUGH FAITH; AND THAT NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; NOT AS A RESULT OF WORKS, SO THAT NO ONE MAY BOAST.
Today’s topic “grace” is much talked about, taught, and even sung. But such is the frequency of it in the Christian walk it can be overlooked, and taken for granted, as if we could possibly say that we know all there is to know about grace. Nothing could be further from the truth; I would go as far as to suggest that such frivolous treatment of grace gives Satan reason to grin and rub his hands in glee.
Grace is given as “charis” in the Greek text; being a benefit, gift, and pleasure. These three words bind the believer to accept God’s grace to Him; His grace is a free gift that benefits us, bringing us pleasure by His hand. But the pleasure involved is two-sided like a coin; we gain pleasure on one side, and on the other Father God has pleasure in redeeming His lost child. Thomas Watson describes the redeeming qualities of grace well: “see the great difference between sin and grace. Sin brings a man low, but grace lifts him high. Sin tumbles him in the ditch, but grace sets him upon the throne.”
“In the purpose of God, we have been raised from the grave of sin and are seated with the risen Lord in the place of acceptance and victory.” F.B. Meyer.
Thus, grace “is the gift of God” – there is nothing we can humanly do to achieve the miraculous benefits of grace. Gift is the Greek word “dōron” which adds a deeper meaning to His gift being a sacrifice and an offering. There can never be any greater sacrifice than the Son of God dying on the cross at Calvary, giving the ultimate sin offering for all of us – we could never come close to paying that fine ourselves!
Dear Reader, are you saved from a life of sin, by the grace of God through His Son Jesus Christ? If so, Hallelujah! If not, time is shorter than you think…you won’t get into Heaven without wearing a cloak of royal grace. The only thing you can do is to bow before God, ask for His forgiveness, and accept His gift of grace. As children of God, we need to often reflect upon His love for us, and particularly on His gift of grace…it is truly amazing!
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Devotional Treasures
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