Are You Growing in Grace?

By Andrea Merrell

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge 

of our Lord and Savior

Jesus Christ. To him be glory 

both now and forever. Amen.

2 Peter 3:18 KJV

Except for the grace of God, that could be you.

I’ve heard that statement all my life, especially from my grandparents—whether it was making fun of people who were different or looking down on folks who had less.

But what does grace really mean?

We sing about God’s amazing grace. We offer it up as a prayer before meals. Paul called it sufficient despite his problems. We are expected to extend it to others.

Most people define grace as God’s unmerited favor. We are saved by grace. But as I’ve gotten older, studied God’s Word, and had numerous opportunities to experience His goodness, I’ve realized it means so much more.

My former pastor once said that grace is “the power of God working within us.” I’ve also heard it said that grace causes growth. When we become new creations in Christ, grace is a catalyst that equips us to live a godly life of discipline, commitment, and obedience. The more we grow in grace, the more like Christ we become—loving, caring, compassionate, giving, and more considerate of others. As the “old man” fades away, we become less negative, critical, judgmental, angry, and self-centered.

As I look back over the years, I see how much time I wasted by not allowing God full reign in my heart and life. Today, my prayer is that I will continue to grow in grace and never take it for granted. Grace is a gift from God that I need each and every day of my life. It is also a gift that I need to freely extend to others.

What about you? Are you growing in grace?

(Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net/radnatt)

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Grace is a gift from God. Freely receive it, then extend it to others. (Click to Tweet.)

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