Abounding Grace: The Gifts of Grace

Sunday, we began to examine the Scripture’s use of the word “grace.” The word is used to refer to God’s favor and his gifts to us. While we looked briefly at the favor God bestows upon us, this week we’ll examine just a few of the many gifts the come to us because we’re favored. Some of the gifts that come to us are already given, like our justification. The Apostle Paul says, “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” Romans 3:24. Notice that justification is the gift that come to us through “grace.” This a gift that all believers currently enjoy.

But there are gifts that God bestows when we ask. Consider James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Now praying this just before taking a test I didn’t study for probably stretches the meaning of this text, but asking God for wisdom in life’s challenging situations is encouraged. James’ encouragement comes in the context of trials and temptations, and he assures us that God will not scoff when we ask. Often, when I pray for wisdom, I linger in God’s presence waiting for his wisdom. Sometimes I have ideas in those moments, sometimes I move on and trust God to lead in my decision-making process. Sometimes, God answers my prayer during the day through the wisdom of my counselors. The point is that wisdom is a gift I can ask for and receive because I enjoy God’s favor.

There are more gifts that God stands ready to bestow if we will engage him and ask. Join us Sunday as we consider these graces.