Exactly what is grace? To begin with, it is favor, God’s favor (Genesis 18:3). Growing in grace means that the favor of God is already there (II Timothy 1:9). It had to be there in order to grow in it. Now, how does one grow in grace? For openers, one turns away from sin. It doesn’t mean that one can suddenly overcome all of one’s sins and temptations. Hence, the growing part, one grows in grace as one finds more and more favor with God. Challenging, yes, but just living is challenging.
As one grows more and more in grace, one also grows in the knowledge of God. To love and trust God is to learn more about Him. Love, faith, trust, and knowledge are tightly bound together in finding favor (growing in grace) with God (I Corinthians 15:10). Over time one grows less and less attached to things that once held meaning. They’re just not so important any longer. God’s favor takes center stage.
That’s what today’s sermon was driving at. Romans 10:11 coupled with Romans 5:5 are prompting believers to not be ashamed of the gospel. Just above Romans 5:5, though, is verse 2 which speaks of the grace wherein we stand. Grace can lead one to confrontations, trials, and tribulations. It’s like standing in the batter’s box. The pitcher has the ball. He’s winding up. What to do? Throw down the bat and run or stay and swing. Grace would say to swing.
Copies of the sermon are always available and we would love to send you a CD of it. They are free. Call (4l7)543-6219 to get a copy. Have a God-blessed, God-inspired, and God-filled week.
