BULLETIN 26- The Grace of God's Preeminence
Greetings to all. The grace of God is the most wonderful gift and we are so often reminded of his generosity to us, his creatures who he loves. We are so often unaware of any problem and therefore should be watching out for idolatry in any form that will detract from our relationship. If we put anything apart from or above our love and loyalty to God, or have extreme allegiance to any object, person or pursuit of pleasure, is to express idolatry. That is not to deny that appropriate love is necessary and advantageous. But if a person's heart is empty of God's grace many things become idols. For example monetary wealth, material possessions, financial security or even a child. For a few people it is difficult to resist such a situation and the heart becomes hardened.
Hebrews 13:9 says "For it is a good thing that the heart be established with Grace." We therefore ask- Is there something in your life competing for Christ's proper place? A heart of grace will always reject idolatry in any form.
The Grace of Weakness God is not attracted to strength but to weakness. It is our weakness that helps us to humbly receive his strength. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV, Paul said about the sufficiency of God's grace,-" And he said to me, my grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." When we try so hard to hide our weaknesses and do not acknowledge our needs, we cheat ourselves of God's grace.
The Grace of humility The most pervasive idol is the one within, the God of self is the most serious idol; this depends on what fits our personal desires or ambitions to the exclusion of God. We may allow pride into our life and ignore God's grace, even if we try to obey him. But God only gives grace to the humble. So James 4;6 KJV says-"But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he said, ``God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble."
The Grace of Joy in Service Paul considered himself to be a servant, a helper of others. The heart of grace rejoices in serving others. This is truly expressing a Divine gift of service. 2 Corinthians 1:24,4:5 KJV says" Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy, for by faith we stand. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
We are reminded that grace is an unmerited gift from God in his everlasting love and provision for his creatures. The other meaning of grace is about the prayer of thanksgiving that we teach our small children and others before eating. It's an example to them of our devotion to God that has importance in guiding them to an acceptance of our faith.
Blessings to all.
srd