The third Friday of each month in 2019 we are studying my favorite life verses: 2 Corinthians 4:15-18. This section of Scripture has proven a solid source of faith for me through many challenges over the last decade. As we work our way through this passage of verses you’ll see how it builds on the previous phrases all the way to the end.
All this is for your benefit so that the grace that is reaching more and more people…
It seams we’re hearing more about God’s grace than ever before. God’s grace certainly isn’t a new thing. For some reason we are more in tune with it or maybe we are more aware of it. Grace may appear simple but there are multiple layers to the concept of grace.
Grace defined.
Biblical grace is defined simply as the undeserved favor and blessings from God. It is a gift from God through Christ which gives us the power and ability to do what God wants us to do. Grace not only is a gift from God to us, it is working in and through us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
How grace reaches me.
For it is by God’s grace that you have been saved through faith. It is not the result of your own efforts, but God’s gift, so that no one can boast about it. ~ Ephesians 2:8-9 (GNT)
We have access to God’s grace simply through faith. God’s grace is freely given to us the moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. But really it was the grace of God that even opened our heart to know and receive Christ to begin with. God’s love is full of grace. God’s grace is full of love.
How grace reaches others through me.
Let your light shine everywhere you go, that you may illumine creation, so men and women everywhere may see your good actions, may see creation at its fullest, may see your devotion to Me, and may turn and praise your Father in heaven because of it. ~ Matthew 5:16 (VOICE)
My proper response to God’s amazing grace is a life well lived for Christ. And that is exactly how God’s grace reaches others through me. They will see how our attitudes have changed, we may have freedom from an addiction or recent healing in our relationships. We may be exhibiting a special gift: teaching, giving, leading, or encouraging those around us.
Whatever the case, we must remember in each and every season of our life we have a cloud of witnesses watching. Whether it’s our neighbors, family or co-workers… someone is always watching to see how we’re walking life out. I pray by the power of God’s grace I will leave His influence in my wake.
God, keep us near your grace-fountain and bless us!
And when you look down on us, may your face beam with joy!
Send us out all over the world so that everyone everywhere
will discover your ways and know who you are
and see your power to save. ~ Psalm 67:1-2 (TPT)
Contemplate how God’s amazing grace is reaching in and through your life as you listen to one of my new favorite songs by Elevation Worship.
*The Voice Translation
**The Passion Translation