Devotional KH 12-04-06

Extending Grace
As a middle school teacher, I have strict policies in my classroom. One of them is that homework cannot be turned in late-ever! And while this may seem a bit harsh, there are times when I will make an exception. Most students are absolutely shocked when I do this and usually ask why? I always give them a one-word answer-grace. After this, students usually return to their seats confused but grateful nonetheless. I can only extend grace to my students because I know how wonderful it feels to be a recipient of it.
Grace is God’s unmerited favor, meaning God loves you, seeks you and protects you simply because you are you! You don’t have to do anything to receive it, in fact; on the contrary you could never do enough.
God is the giver of grace. (I Peter 5:10, James 1:17) When God sent Jesus to die on the cross for the sins of man-this was the ultimate act of grace. It is only through the grace of God that a sinful people are able to come to Christ, for Christ came from the Father full of grace. (John 1:14) Even as a child, Christ was full of grace. (Luke 2:40) Because grace came through Christ, it is now able to overflow to us. (John 1:17, Romans 5:15) Therefore, sin has no control over you because you are covered by grace. (Romans 6:15) Not only are you covered, but it is by grace that you are saved! (Ephesians 2:5)
Wanna be more like Christ? Extend grace. Let someone get in front of you in the checkout line even though you’re tired. (grace) That car you’ve been racing on Chestnut Street let them make the light. (grace) Give someone more time. Your child, give them the benefit of the doubt. Your spouse or loved one-forgive them.
Look in the mirror; start to see Christ in yourself. Extend grace-for Jesus freely gives it. (Ephesians 1:6)
By the way, if you find it difficult to extend grace, ask for help. “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
Copyright 12-4-06 KH