Oh Ye Of Little Grace

Oh ye of little grace! This is the exact thought that entered my mind as I sat down and studied through this week’s Bible Fellowship study. Like flood waters rushing over a dam, my memory was drawn to ungracious words I had spoken recently. No, I wasn’t trying to be ungracious or harsh, but it seems to come natural for me.

Part of maturing as a Christian is learning to behave in a Christ-like manner during difficult times. It is most difficult to extend grace to others when we do not seem to be receiving grace. The conscience is quick to justify bad attitudes and misbehavior based on the current conditions of our life. I am so glad Christ did not treat me the way I treated and treat Him! In the parable of the Faithful Steward found in the 12th chapter of Matthew we read, “…For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required…”

I have been so blessed in my marriage, in my children, in my ministry; in every area of life God’s blessings have far exceeded my worth! Why? Why would God make such an upside down investment in me—one who was considered an enemy (“For if when we were enemies…” Rom. 5:10)? If there was ever a question that could be summed up in one answer it is this one. The answer is grace, God’s amazing grace! I love what the Apostle Paul says in Ephesians 2:4, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, (didn’t deserve it) made us alive together with Christ (by His grace you have been saved…”

I hope you truly studied and contemplated this week’s Bible Fellowship lesson. I pray the fruit of this study—not only for my own life but for the life of the church—will result in grace manifested throughout our church and community. God has laid a challenge on my heart this week, and I want to extend it to you as well. It is really quite simple. Find someone this week in your life who deserves nothing from you and show the love of God through grace.

In His Service
Pastor Barry