2 Timothy 2:1: “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”

July 15th, 2022 by Pastor Ed in devotional

The Apostle Paul instructed his young protégé, Timothy, to draw from the only reliable, never-ending source of strength—the grace that comes from living in Jesus Christ. Being a believer in Jesus Christ means living both in and by His grace. Many have noted that grace is not simply our ticket through the door into heaven but it is also the fuel for our journey to get there. So what exactly is “the grace that is in Christ Jesus?” Many have called it the undeserved and unearned favor of God toward us.

This is a good description and reveals that trying to earn, merit, or purchase the gift of salvation would be an insult to the Giver. It would be like being invited by the President of the United States to a banquet in the White House, and after enjoying the state dinner, as the President stood at the door to say good-bye, you tried to press a ten dollar bill into his hand, saying, “Thank you very much, here’s a little something to help pay for the food.” Of course that would be a rude, insulting gesture, and trying to earn or merit God’s grace would be the same. Attempting to earn a gift is always an insult; therefore, the only other option possible is to simply be grateful and live our lives accordingly.

“LORD, even the words ‘Thank You’ seem too small compared to the cost of the gift You’ve given us. Please help us to serve You well this day, in Jesus’ name.”