Evidence of Grace
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.” Romans 12:6
I’ve stopped looking at what another can do to measure what I think I should be able to do. What you do may be difficult for me and what’s easy for me may not be for you. Let’s not make our gifts an opportunity to judge or compare. Gifts are in accordance with the grace that’s been given. I have the grace that matches my gifts. It’s like getting a toy car for Christmas with the batteries included. I am given the gift and the energy that goes along with it. I recognize gifts by their accompanying grace.
“God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8
That doesn’t mean it’s always easy; but it does mean that even when it’s tough I’ll have the grace to face the hard work. My desire to conquer the difficulty is in proportion to the grace that’s been given.
“I have written you quite boldly on some points because of the grace God gave me.” Romans 15:15
Paul spoke boldly because of the grace he was given. Others have a merciful gift and speak with greater empathy because of the grace given to them. The point is to be who I am, to accept myself, and to give all that I have. I can’t give what I don’t have or try to be who I am not. People need me for who I am. I love who He’s made me to be. I am equally as valuable as those whose gifts differ from my own.
“Those reputed to be pillars gave me the right hand of fellowship when they recognized the grace given to me. They agreed that I should go to the Gentiles, and they to the Jews. All they asked was that I should continue to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.” Galatians 2:9-10
Grace distinguishes me from others. When a particular grace is evidenced then room is made for that gift. The right hand of fellowship is offered because it’s hard to argue with grace! Grace evidences God’s choice. When I have the grace to do something it is like a spotlight shining on me. Those who see will allow me to do what I’m gifted to do. The gift makes room for itself and each person’s gift becomes relevant and equal.
And, in the light of the grace that’s been given, I remember the poor. I offer my gift, my substance, and my being with no need for reward or response. I give because I want what’s been invested in me to yield an increase in myself and others. I will do what I’ve been graced to do and to leave the rest for someone else. I may never know why or fully understand how another life is impacted when I am just “me”…but God does, and that’s what matters.