Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – November 10, 2018
For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you. Ephesians 3:1–2
Stewards of God’s grace have unlimited resources to manage on behalf of their Master Jesus Christ. Like Paul and Stephen, when full of grace we are in a better position to allocate its riches. God gives His children grace to dispense to needy hearts. Jew or Gentile, believer or unbeliever, agitator or encourager—all need God’s matchless grace.
“Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). Indeed, the grace of God is evidence for the works of God.
Grace stewards give grace, especially to those who are the most different. Diverse cultures, races, religions, opinions, and giftedness are great candidates for grace. How do you handle someone who challenges your ideas? Do you listen with grace or react with defensive pride? Grace is slow to speak, quick to listen, and responds in the Spirit’s power. Mercy withholds punishment; grace does the same and extends favor. It is proactive.
“Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace” (2 Corinthians 1:12).
So we ask, “What is our capacity for Christ’s grace?” The larger our grace quotient, the more gracious we become. Like knowledge expands the mind and food the stomach, so grace enlarges our soul’s capacity for the Lord. The more He has of us, the more we want of Him. Faithful stewards of God’s grace use its influence in service to others.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).
It is out of the overflow of grace-based living that we are able to seek out and serve the ungracious on behalf of Jesus. The grace of God goes where no man can go. It heals the heart of a hurting friend. It softens the heart of an angry parent. It warms the heart of a distant boss. Grace extended never disappoints. It melts fear, calms concerns, and receives sinners back. Steward well the grace of God, and watch Him work wonders.
“The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen” (Revelation 22:21).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your generous, overflowing grace that I can give to others, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Do I prayerfully steward God’s grace toward all people? Am I a gracious Jesus follower?
Related Reading
Romans 5:15; 2 Corinthians 6:1; Philippians 1:7; Colossians 1:3–7
Taken from Seeking Daily the Heart of God v.2
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It is out of the overflow of grace-based living that we are able to seek out and serve the ungracious on behalf of Jesus. #WisdomHunters #grace
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