For it is by grace that you have been saved, through faith; and this is not from yourselves: it is the gift of God: not by works, so that no one can boast. (Eph. 2:8-9 NIV) The word grace here means kindness, attractiveness, goodwill, and favor. It is a benevolent God who showed us His great kindness and favor instead of giving us what we deserved, He gave us His favor which cost Him dearly. He made His Son our scapegoat. He placed all of our sins on His innocent Son to welcome us back into His presence.
God’s grace may be abounding, but one thing it is not is cheap. It isn’t sloppy and inexpensive. Though He has enough for all, it can be wasted. And though it is potent and powerful enough for the strongest of sinners, it can be misapplied and subsequently made of no effect. Its vastness is unsearchable, but its reach is precise. Romans 1:5 tells us, “By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name.” Paul teaches us that the grace of God is not given so that we can sin without fear of punishment but instead for obedience to the faith. Grace is not a get-out-of-jail-free card. It is, in fact, the opposite. It is the powerful gift of God to lead a life of obedience to the faith in victory over sin and to carry its message to the world.
This precious grace is to be valued and never squandered. Be careful not to trample on the goodwill and favor of God. Instead, embrace the grace He so lavishly poured out to you. Today bring great joy and glory to God by letting it lead you. Let it order your steps. Let it change you and grow you up in the ways of God as He intended, bringing you joy and freedom. Grace truly is amazing.
Jaime Luce
