Grace is Sufficient

I last posted about doubts which can truly be a thorn in a believer’s side and we examined where to turn which brought to mind Paul’s encouragement from 2 Corinthians 12:9;

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

Paul shares that no matter our “thorns”, the grace of God will get us through all things. That is truly a powerful and loving statement; yet how can we be sure of this, how do we find this grace? I truly believe that one way to find this grace and to get through whatever is ailing us is to turn to God’s Word!

Jerry Bridges is so helpful in his book Transforming Grace. He points out that Romans 15:4-5 show the connection between Scripture, God and his grace;

4For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus

Bridges points out that verse 4 shows us that we receive endurance and encouragement from scripture and verse 5 shows us that God gives endurance and encouragement. Can you see the vital link of scripture as a means of finding and receiving the grace of God for whatever our need?

Bridges also reminds that Scripture is often called Word of His grace and that God uses Scripture to mediate His grace to each on of us. Bridges quotes R. C. H. Lenski who said; “God and the Word of His grace always go together; God lets His grace flow out through that Word.”

Bridges says; “If we are to appropriate the grace of God, then, we must regularly expose ourselves directly to the Word of God…as the regular eating of proper food is necessary to sustain a healthy physical life, so the regular intake of God’s Word is necessary to sustain a healthy spiritual life and to regularly appropriate His grace.”

So amazing is God’s Word! As Bridges points out it is food for our soul. Bridges also quotes Charles Hodge on the importance of God’s Word. Hodges says; “In opposition…to all the suggestions of the devil, the safe, simple, and sufficient answer is the Word of God. This put to flight all the powers of darkness. The Christian finds this to be true in his individual experience. It dissipates his doubts; it drives away his fears; it delivers him from the power of Satan.”

God’s grace is sufficient for all things; may we all turn to his Word; seeking; yearning; finding His grace.

Grace and Peace!