Living as Givers of Grace

"Showing grace to others is something we must all practice because grace is only grace if it goes both ways. Receiving it from God but refusing to give it to others is not an option." - Pastor Keith

In yesterday's devotion, we explored how we are transformed by Grace. As followers of Christ, we are recipients of boundless grace that not only saves us from sin but also transforms our hearts and minds. Today we will discuss how this transformation calls us not only to receive it but to allow it to reshape our interactions and responses to others and give others Grace.

In Matthew 18:21-35, the parable of the unforgiving servant powerfully illustrates our responsibility to extend grace to others, just as we have received it from God. Jesus uses this parable to challenge us to forgive those who have wronged us, reflecting the profound forgiveness God has granted us for our own transgressions. This call to forgive is an essential aspect of living out our faith, demonstrating the depth of our understanding of God’s grace.

Grace should not stop with us; it is meant to flow through us to affect the lives around us, transforming communities and relationships. When we remember the immense debt God has forgiven in us—our flaws, sins, and failures—we are reminded of the limitless capacity of divine grace, which in turn softens our hearts toward others' shortcomings and wrongdoings. This daily reminder encourages us to be conduits of grace rather than barriers. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to empower you to be a channel of God’s grace, embodying His love and mercy in every situation, especially when it is difficult. Through the Spirit's power, we can transcend our natural inclinations toward resentment and instead embrace a lifestyle that reflects the redemptive and renewing work of grace in our live

Key Scriptures:

Matthew 18:21-35: The parable of the unforgiving servant reminding us of our call to forgive others.

Application: Reflect on ways God's grace has transformed your life and how you can actively demonstrate this grace to others daily. Are there individuals in your life whom you struggle to forgive? Identify individuals in your life whom you need to forgive and pray for the strength and willingness to extend grace to them. Seek God's help to be mindful of opportunities to share grace in your community, especially in unexpected or challenging situations.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the abundant grace You have shown us. Help us to remember the depth of Your forgiveness and to extend that same grace to others. Soften our hearts where they have become hardened, and empower us to forgive as You have forgiven us. Guide us to be aware of the opportunities to demonstrate Your love and grace, especially in difficult moments. May our lives be a reflection of Your transformative power and mercy. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.