Good morning! Today is Thursday, March 30, 2023. If there’s any word that is often misdefined, it is the word “grace.” We often think we can cruise if we receive God’s grace, but nothing could be further from the truth. People of grace are diligent and conscientious. Works are not the opposite of grace; they complement grace. Read on …
Today's Reading:
Judges 8; Psalms 42; 1 Corinthians 15
Scripture
For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them – yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me." (1 Corinthians 15:9-10)
Observation
It sounds like opposites, but grace requires work! God's grace is not something that, once received, dismisses you from any further effort. Instead, it makes us labor all the more!
Let me explain: Let's say that I was to be fired from a company for stealing. However, the owner saw my repentance, interceded for me, and instead of firing me, gave me "grace!" He fully restored my position, and now, my family will continue to be provided for. The consequences of my actions are fully forgiven!
I would never return to my old criminal self when I realized the amazing, undeserved gift of grace. By no means! I would never take this for granted. In fact, I would now become the best worker in the company and the most diligent. I'd never slip into ever thinking I deserved more! If anyone criticized the owner, I would set them straight! Grace gives me the reason to labor with passion, speak with honor, and be fully committed to the company … because I received grace when I deserved judgment!
Application
I wonder if sometimes we mistake "God's grace" for God's leniency. God may be merciful, but He is not soft on sin. He is forgiving, but He is not ignorant. He gives grace, but that grace comes at a very high price. I want to exude the grace of God in my life by being diligent and hard-working, ethical and frugal. I will labor diligently … not me, but it is the grace of God that is within me!
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your grace on my life. May I example Your grace at work in me and through me. I will be diligent and dependable because I was shown great grace!
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