Happy Monday! It’s Nov. 14, 2022. This past weekend we celebrated Veteran’s Day. We honor those who serve (or have served) in the military - those willing to sacrifice for our freedom. We will never take that commitment for granted. And so it is with GRACE. Never take God’s grace for granted. In fact, it should motivate us to live as never before. Read on …
Today's Reading:
Psalms 149; 1 Corinthians 15,16
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 - not I, but the grace of God was with me” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10)
Observation
Grace requires work! It sounds like a paradox, doesn’t it? Paul shares his insights on God’s grace and explains that the grace God grants does not excuse us from labor. Instead, it brings great motivation and purpose to our labor!
For example, let’s say I got fired from a job for stealing. I realize my failure, but instead of the boss filing a criminal report, he gives me grace and forgiveness! Not only that, he allows me to remain in the same position as before, even though I deserve jail time. I am grateful and relieved!
Now, recognizing his kindness and grace toward me, do you think I’d keep stealing? No way! Instead, I am now motivated to become the best worker, the most diligent laborer in the company, and thankful every day for the privilege of serving!
In the same way, when I recognize God’s grace on my life (and knowing that I deserve hell), His grace becomes the reason to labor for Christ with passion and to serve His purposes gladly!
Application
We have been taught that we were saved by grace and not by works. While that is true, we can fall into serving Jesus begrudgingly instead of gladly. I can never take His grace for granted. When I realize the massive favor of God’s grace, I am motivated to live differently! God’s grace motivated Paul to devote the best of his time and energy to preaching the Gospel. He became one of God’s best generals in taking the Good News to the Gentiles! Although salvation comes by grace, fruit-bearing will result from glad labor and a willingness to work for His good pleasure!
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me gladly put my hand to the plow because your great grace compels me. I am filled with gratefulness for the privilege you give me to serve!
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