2/4 - Always Thankful

Hebrews 13:16: "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God."

Hebrews 13:16 NIV

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

This verse emphasizes the importance of sharing what we have with others, as these acts of kindness are pleasing to God.

Israel Perdonsin

Grace in Action - Living Out the Gift of Grace

Introduction:

In a world where we often find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of expectations and responsibilities, it's easy to lose sight of what truly defines us as followers of Christ.

Today, I want to share a personal story that has profoundly impacted my understanding of grace.

A few years ago, I found myself at a crossroads, struggling to extend forgiveness to someone who had wronged me deeply.

It was during this challenging time that I turned to Ephesians 2:8-10, which says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

This passage not only reminded me of the grace I have received but also challenged me to extend that same grace to others.

Let's explore how we can learn to be Always Thankful , by livening out this grace in our daily lives.

Main Point 1: Understanding Grace as a Gift

Start with Scripture:

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." - Ephesians 2:8-9

Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV)

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.

The concept of grace is often misunderstood as something we earn through our actions.

The Greek term "charis" (χάρις) translates to grace, but its depths go beyond mere favor—it's a transformative power that shapes our entire being.

However, the Bible clearly states that grace is a gift from God, given to us through faith.

As Timothy Keller once said, "The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope."

This understanding of grace should humble us and inspire us to live out our faith in a way that reflects this gift.

Gift (δῶρον, doron): This term is used to describe something given freely, without expectation of return.

Illustration: Consider the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).

Despite the son's rebellion and wastefulness, the father welcomes him back with open arms, demonstrating the unconditional nature of God's grace.

This story challenges us to reflect on how we can extend such grace to those around us.

Main Point 2: Living Out Grace in Our Mission

Start with Scripture:

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." - Ephesians 2:10

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Living out grace is not just about receiving it but also about extending it to others through our actions.

As Rick Warren notes, "You were put on earth to make a contribution. You weren't created just to consume resources—to eat, breathe, and take up space. God designed you to make a difference with your life."

This means that our daily lives should be a reflection of the grace we have received, inspiring us to serve and love others unconditionally.

Illustration: The story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a powerful example of living out grace. The Samaritan, unlike the priest and the Levite, chooses to extend grace and mercy to the man in need, demonstrating what it means to live out our faith in practical ways.

Main Point 3: Extending Grace to Others

Start with Scripture:

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Extending grace to others is a critical aspect of living out our faith. This means being kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving, just as God has been to us.

As C.S. Lewis said, "To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you."

This quote reminds us that forgiveness is not only about freeing others but also about freeing ourselves from the burdens of resentment and anger.

Illustration: The story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50) is a remarkable example of extending grace. Despite being betrayed by his brothers, Joseph chooses to forgive and even bless them, demonstrating the transformative power of grace in our lives.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, living out grace in our daily lives is about understanding it as a gift from God, reflecting this grace in our actions, and extending it to others.

As we reflect on Ephesians 2:8-10, let us remember that our lives are a testament to the grace we have received.

May we be inspired to live out this grace in a way that honors God and blesses those around us.

Appeal:

Let us commit ourselves to a life of grace, not just in word but in action.

May we pray for the courage to extend forgiveness, to serve others unconditionally, and to live out our faith in a way that reflects the grace we have received.

Let us pray:

"Dear Lord, help us to understand the depth of your grace and to live out our lives in a way that reflects this gift.

Give us the courage to extend grace to others, just as you have extended it to us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."

Practical Applications:

Reflect on Grace: Take time this week to reflect on the grace you have received from God. How has this grace impacted your life?

Extend Forgiveness: Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? Take a step towards extending grace to them this week.

Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve others unconditionally, whether it's through volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply being there for someone in need.

Pray for Guidance: Pray for guidance on how to live out grace in your daily life. Ask God to give you the courage and wisdom to extend grace to others.

May we be inspired to live out our faith in a way that reflects the grace we have received, and may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of God's grace.