(Eph. 2:7-9) That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.  Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

 

GRACE - unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification. Approval, favor, mercy, pardon. A virtue coming from God.

        When we hear someone mention the word, “Grace”, there are two things that may come to our mind. #1 – The prayer we recite to bless our food (Let’s say the grace). #2 – God’s Unmerited Favor!

      This week, we will explore what Grace means, what it’s for and how we are recipients of it. Grace is nothing that we have to work for. It is also not something we can earn or anything we deserve. It is divinely given by God because He loves us, cares for us and wants to provide for us.  Contrary to many people beliefs or opinions, God is a loving God and wants us to benefit from His provisions and blessings.           

      When we say Unmerited favor (Grace) it is simply saying that we are not entitled to or deserve anything He wants to give us. God graces whomever He chose to grace. It can’t be bought, but has to be given by Him. Have you ever received a gift from someone “just because”? It wasn’t your birthday, anniversary, or nothing notable in your life. The person just decided to give it to you. Well, that’s how God’s grace to us can be compared in a sense. It is given through the sacrifices of His only son, Jesus, that we can receive this grace from God. We didn’t bleed on the cross, suffered on the cross, nor did we die on the cross. It was because of Jesus that we can merit this favor. Jesus did all the work and the sacrifices that we could obtain grace through his Father.  

                Bishop Jakes coined this phrase, “Favor Ain’t Fair”. I added to this, “Favor Ain’t Fair, But I Love it!” Whenever you obtain some undeserved blessings or whatever you may receive, remember it is God’s grace towards you and not luck or anything you may think you did to get it! Join us for Part 2 tomorrow.

Have a Blessed Week!