Grace and Good Works

And God is able to make all grace abound unto you; that ye, having always all sufficiency in everything, may abound unto every good work; as it is written, He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor; His righteousness abideth for ever. (2 Corinthians 9:8-9). When considering the connection between grace and good works, God's ability is comes first. "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you." The Lord intends for us to be the objects of His ever flowing grace. Our God is fully capable of accomplishing such an outpouring of His grace, upon His children. The Lord desires to "make all grace abound toward you." He wants to impact our lives with every aspect of His grace ("all grace"). He has grace available in every category that we will ever need. He is ready to flood our lives with such grace ("abound toward you"). This term ("abound") could be illustrated by compelling waves consistently rolling up on the seashore, leaving their inevitable imprint, or such grace can be liken to the force behind the following of river which nothing can stop.

God's grace impacts humility, trusting hearts in great a manner or faith in a manner needed for all effective service. "That you, always having all sufficiency in all things." Whenever we place our dependence in the Lord, He supplies everything that is necessary ("all sufficiency") for everything He would have us to do ("in all things). The immediate context relates this truth to financial provision; yet, the language goes far beyond any circumstantial limitation: "having all sufficiency in all things." Meaning that there is no limit to the grace for those who only seek God, Matthew 6:33 can attest to this. This speaks of any need in any situation. If we need grace for biblical family life, it is included here. If we need grace for running a godly business, it is offered here. If we need grace for witnessing, it is included here. If we need grace for church ministry, it is included here. For financial freedom, living a holy life, name it, all are included here - "That you, always having all sufficiency in all things." Our God is a bountiful Master, who loves to lavish His resources upon His servants. "That you may have an abundance." However, this bounty is not for personal notion or carnal indulgence. It is for "every good work." God's abundance is for the furthering of His will here on earth. So, we can be encouraged. If our desire is to serve our Lord, immeasurable spiritual treasures are available for our service.

This does not mean we are exempt from seasons of apparent lack. We have lessons to learn that must be taught during times of adversity as well as abundance, Philippians 4:12-13. So during times of adversity, don’t run to those who will tell you is your ancestors, or your parents who they labelled witches/wizards or that your enemies are after you. Learn from the account of Job and Joseph, be wise. O Lord, giver of every good and perfect gift, remind me to look to You for abounding grace in every trial and in every opportunity. Lord, I know that I need You in the delightful times, just as much as in the agonizing times. Use me for implementing Your will in this rebellious world. I praise You that finding the grace I need for serving You depends on Your ability, not mine. Pour out Your grace upon us, these I pray, in Jesus name, Amen.