Attributes of God on F.I.R.E.نموونە

Attribute #3 – Grace

Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 2:1).

The term “grace” means unmerited favor. Stated otherwise, God’s impartation of that which we don’t deserve. The psalmist Asaph asked, “Has God forgotten to be gracious?” (Psalm 77:9). The answer is a resounding no, for God is eternally gracious. He is gracious by nature and from His eternal being comes no lack of favor to those who depend upon Him.

The New Testament greatly expands the significance of grace. We are saved by God’s grace (Ephesians 2:4–5, Ephesians 2:8–9). Salvation is entirely God’s gift and is not dependent upon us. Grace enables us to stand in our faith (Romans 5:1–2). It is God’s favor that brings us into a right relationship with Him. Jesus, the perfect sacrifice, rose from the dead, ministered for forty days, and signified mission complete by sitting at the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 10:10–12). God’s children don’t continue to stand based upon good deeds. We stand because Jesus is seated.

Believers are called to grow (mature) in grace (2 Peter 3:18) which requires deepening our knowledge of God (Colossians 1:10) and allowing His Word to transform and strengthen our spiritual lives. Daily Bible reading with study builds strong spiritual muscle.

Can we obtain more grace when we need it? Mercy and grace flow from the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). When Jesus died the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom showing that believers have access to the presence of God. We are invited to approach God boldly in prayer and receive His unending favor. The Word of God and prayer make a powerful tandem producing grace in the life of the believer.

Grace is received by those who are humble and not proud. Peter exhorts us to “be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). James concurs, “But He gives more grace. Therefore, He says: ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” (James 4:6).

Having been given much grace, we are to extend grace to others. One way is through our speech. Our speech should be governed by grace, being kind and edifying (Colossians 4:6). Let’s keep close to God through continual communication and represent Him well with our words conveyed with grace.

Employment Point: Lead grace-filled lives to accomplish the impossible for the provider of all grace!