James 4:6 (NKJV)
6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Grace is unmerited favor. You don’t deserve it, you can never earn it and you can never pay the giver back. It is a gift given you because the Giver loves you and wants you to have the gift. The Gift of Grace goes so far beyond anything we can ask or imagine that it is hard to describe. Grace includes righteousness as well.
God gives us His grace in many situations. When we face something that is beyond us, God provides what is needed. You do all you can and God will do what you can’t. When you live in His will, believing and trusting in Him, He will work all things out for your good. He gives more grace as needed. Remember, it is not for anything you have done. It is because of His mercy and compassion toward you. It is not of yourself. Humility is knowing that you don’t deserve the gift.
Sometimes, when I hear a song or read something about the extent to which Christ went to redeem me, it moves me to tears. How could He do that for me? “Amazing Grace how can it be, that You my God would die for me” are the lyrics of a song. I don’t deserve it, I can never earn it, I can never pay Him back or can I?
In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the Good Samaritan had mercy on his neighbor. Jesus tells us to love our neighbor as our self. He says “go and do likewise”. The Good Samaritan showed mercy. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus also said “40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’” You see, Jesus wants us to treat others with the grace and mercy He has given to us. That is the way to pay Him back. We are to share the gift He has given us, the gift of grace. Out of the overflow of the gifts He has given you, you can give to others. Jesus will be glorified through that act. So be gracious, compassionate and merciful to those you meet. Each person is God’s creation; His masterpiece. Treat them as such. Value them. Give the grace you have received.
Lord, we can never thank You enough for Your gift of Grace! It is beyond our ability to place a value. Since it is priceless, help us to share what we are given with those in need. Thank You that You love us so much. Many are suffering with insecurity. Many don’t feel they deserve anything good. Although we don’t deserve grace in our deeds, You still offer it to all people. You are willing to bless anyone who comes to you with a contrite heart. Draw us to You and cover us with Your Grace and righteousness In Jesus name! Amen!