Grace - is it that easy?

Grace is a term that is easier to talk about than to understand and experience. Grace is usually defined as unmerited favor; something you get that you don't deserve. Do I really understand and apply that to my life?

It's not hard to tell if you understand the grace of God. Do you live in a state of fear and discouragement? Do you wonder if you are living up to God's standards? Do you think God's forgiveness is enough for all your sins? Do you think grace is good news for the non-Christian but rarely think about it since you were saved? Are you tempted to be proud of your successes but discouraged by your failures? Both of these are signs that you are not depending on the grace of God to see you through.

God's grace is amazing. He has given it fully and freely. He has forgiven all our sins - past, present, and future through Jesus' death on the cross. His grace was extended to us before we even chose to accept him. God's grace gives us the strength to turn from sin and walk in righteousness (Titus 2:11 - 14) God's grace enables us to persevere through this life. (1 Cor 1:4-9).

Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin.

Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Titus 2:11 – 12 “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”