When I started writing my blog a year ago, I titled it 'Sufficient Grace' because I firmly believe in the importance of God's grace. I also believe that His grace IS sufficient, if we allow it to be. I also believe that we are called to grant grace to others, on a regular basis, and without judgement. I won't lie and say that I do this regularly myself, for I know one of my weaknesses is to be judgmental towards others.
What, then, is grace? And what does it even mean to "grant grace" to another? As I looked for a true definition online, I stumbled upon this:
What is the Biblical Meaning of Grace?
Answer
The meaning of grace can be found in an acronym of the word: 'God's Riches At Christ's Expense'. This means we, though sinful, can partake in God's kingdom because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Grace is essentially getting what we do not deserve -- Heaven
There you have it, the basic meaning of God's Grace is being given another opportunity, or being forgiven for a mistake, even when we don't truly deserve it. Even when we knowingly sinned, or didn't listen to God and chose our own way, He will grant us grace and forgiveness. He will allow us to try again, and He will continue to grant us grace if we continue to do wrong. Wow! Not only that, but His grace is sufficient to allow us to be forgiven and to move on.
We all need grace, regularly, and we all need to give grace to others, regularly. You cannot know what silent struggles, inner pains, or personal anguishes another is going through. Try hard to not judge, but instead to grant grace for their actions. Whether it's the unhelpful customer service rep on the phone, or the unfriendly waiter at the restaurant, or the unbending cashier who is standing firm on "store policy", or the unyielding child throwing a tantrum in the store while mom ignores or gives in to their demands - choose grace, smile, be positive and polite, and remember that you simply do not know what the day is like in their shoes, nor do you know if you giving them that bit of grace may be all they need to turn their attitude around.
God's grace is sufficient, and is never-ending. I am working hard to stop judging, and simply pass that courteous gesture of grace along. I hope others will see fit to give me grace as well. I feel like I need it often!
