We desperately need grace in our lives. We learn about grace and love in Scripture through Jesus’ actions with the sinful people He encountered, and in our personal encounters with Him. Grace is a gift from God, a gift that is not earned or deserved. Grace is the love of God that comes to us through His Son. God’s grace is an expression of His unconditional love, and we need to believe and receive it for ourselves before we can share it with others. While God calls us to believe and stand on truth, He also calls us to demonstrate His grace and love. It is possible to disagree with someone’s choices and still love and value them. Biblical beliefs should never be a basis to devalue another human being. Ask God to help you see where you need to change your posture, showing others compassion and empathy.

 

Day 1      Ephesians 2:1-9

Reflect: What truths do we need to know from Jesus before we see grace for what it truly is? Why is it so critical that we understand God’s grace?

Apply:   Amazing Grace includes the words “…that saved a wretch like me.” Look up the definition of wretch. Who comes to mind? Would you want to hang around someone like this? Jesus did.

Pray:      Father, we are wretched people in our sinful state. But with Christ as my Savior, I have a life-changing, redemptive message that can save the world!           

                                                                                                                               

Day 2      Hebrews 4:14-16

Reflect: How does the truth in verse 15 affect the way we view trials? Our sin? Our attitude in approaching God in prayer? What do you know about God and about yourself that would cause you to feel like “drawing back” instead of “drawing near” to God’s presence?

Apply:   When have you received grace from an authority figure? What would you have deserved instead? For what “times of need” do you feel you need God’s mercy and grace?

Pray:      Jesus, I’m grateful that You intimately understand all my trials and troubles and that I can bring all my cares, knowing that You understand. I praise You for the goodness and grace You extend to me.

                                                                                                               

Day 3      Titus 2:11–14

Reflect: To what does “the grace of God” refer? Why would grace teach us the things mentioned? How can we train for godliness? What does it mean to you that you are God’s possession?

Apply:   In your lifestyle, what things indicate that you’re not living in grace? From where does your strength come for denying sin? How can you show grace to others in day-to-day life?

Pray:     Lord, give me a deeper understanding of what Your amazing grace has accomplished in my life as I diligently seek to live by Your Word. May the hope that I have in You be reignited daily as I look for Your return.

                                                                                                               

Day 4       Romans 6:11-18

Reflect: What does living under grace versus under the law mean to you? How do you understand righteous living? How does grace play a part? How can grace increase if we continue to sin?

Apply:   What sins will you reckon dead today? Do you have a habit or attitude you’d like to see changed? Is there someone you can help to live more fully under grace, yielded to God?

Pray:       Jesus, thank You that You not only died for my sin but that You died unto sin so that I might be empowered to live my life in spirit and truth, as I abide in You and You in me.

                                                                               

Day 5       Romans 13:8-10

Reflect:  What is Paul’s understanding of love’s relationship with the law? How is the law identical to truth? How is grace an underlying current?

Apply:   This week, what would it look like to pay on the continuing “debt of love” you owe to others? Is there someone you need to reach out to because your words conveyed more truth than grace?

Pray:      Father, by Your grace, may I learn to love with a supernatural, Christ-like love. Multiply Your everlasting love for others within my heart, so that I may fulfill Your law.

 

Put It Into Practice!

Identify an area in your life where you need to allow God’s grace to work. Talk to God about how you can rely more on His grace. Ask God to show you how to let grace and love be your first response to people.