“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6
Our Christian walk is meant to be one of fulfillment and beauty. This is not a contradiction to enduring hard times, but an outlook that increases our faith instead of feeling defeated by negative circumstances. Thankfully, there are seasons of outward blessings, but through both the good times and bad, Jesus wants us to have abundant life with joy that doesn’t waver according to our circumstances.
Even though the Word of God speaks of grace given to God’s children, it is a common struggle for some Christians to believe what God has done for them and also what He will continue to do.
The enabling power of the Spirit of God in the heart of Christians gives the ability to overcome sin, conquer addictions, walk in newness of life, and become more and more like Christ. For many who acknowledge the changes Jesus has made in their lives because of His mercy and grace, the struggle remains to feel like we are good enough for the God who saved us. Ironically enough, we believe He can save the worst of sinners but fear that ourefforts to live righteously fall short of what God demands of us.
Friends, we cannot forget that our God is all-knowing, and He created humanity that was given the ability to make mistakes in our fleshly bodies through actions and words. He knows none of us can reach perfection, but only strive to be diligent in our Christian walk with His Spirit to give us grace.
We must learn to believe God and His Word when our minds want us to fret and fear instead. Living righteously and allowing God’s grace to help us needs to be done from a heart of love toward our Savior. Otherwise, we are living righteously for the wrong reasons. Those who are living righteously because of fear are trying to earn salvation. It is mistakenly believing that the blood of Jesus that saves us was not enough and we must add to it.
Galatians 2:21 tells us, “I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.”
Is it possible for us to frustrate the grace of God by denying His power to save us, deliver us, and help us?
Instead of relying on our own strength to be good enough, let us accept the gifts God wants us to receive. When we become children of God according to God’s plan, we are loved by Him! We are forgiven of our mistakes and sins! We are able to walk in true victory!
Grace is there to help in our areas of weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” When our strength isn’t enough, His strength is there to pick up the rest. Hebrews 4:16 tells us, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
May all of us be comforted and reminded that the grace of God is as close as asking for it. Let us stop looking at ourselves to earn our salvation and remember that Jesus’ death on the cross was enough. Let us live according to His ways because we love Him.
