The Gift of Grace

The Gift of Grace

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
1 Timothy 1:15

Recommended Reading
Romans 5:6-8

Every adult has experienced it--being a dispenser or receiver of grace. Your child acts up and deserves to be punished, but you break his rebellious spirit with a loving hug. Or you treat your spouse badly but receive a smile and a "Don't worry--I love you" in return. Or you get angry with God for something, and then read in your Bible that His mercies are new every morning.

When God extends His grace to us--sinners and enemies--it ought to melt our heart. It's hard to be mad or distant toward someone who has every reason to turn away from us but who comes toward us with open arms instead. The prodigal son's heart melted when he experienced the loving arms of his father wrapped tightly around him, receiving his kiss and feeling his embrace (Luke 15:20-21). Grace is receiving a present we know we don't deserve, we never thought we would receive, and we never saw coming--not in a million years. Grace is a gift, pure and simple. The love of God is the grace of God to people who deserve nothing.

Take a moment and say, "Father, thank you for your grace. Thank you for loving me when You didn't have to."

Grace is love that gives, that loves the unlovely and the unlovable.
Oswald C. Hoffman