12.10

Give, the Language of Grace "I have written more boldly to you on some points because of
the grace given to me by God. I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God
which was given to you by Christ Jesus. (Romans 15:15 and 1 Corinthians 1:4)"

The grace of God (which produces boldness in those who live by it) is a gift from God. "I
have written more boldly to you on some points because of the grace given to me by God."
In fact, "give" is basic to the language of grace.

When Paul began his first letter to the believers in Corinth, he emphasized this truth. "I
thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ
Jesus." This is the starting point for all of the work of God in human hearts. The initial
work of salvation is by the gift of God's grace. None of it is produced by the work of
man. "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is
the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). This same
pattern of the giving of grace is true concerning every good thing that God wants to
accomplish in man. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down
from the Father of lights" (James 1:17).

What God wants to do in our hearts is accomplished by His grace, which must be given to
us. This is true concerning eternal life. "And I give them eternal life, and they shall
never perish" (John 10:28). This also pertains to the Holy Spirit in our lives. "And I
will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you
forever" (John 14:16). It is true concerning spiritual gifts. "But the manifestation of
the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. But to each one of us grace was
given according to the measure of Christ's gift" (1 Corinthians 12:7 and Ephesians 4:7).
This pattern applies to spiritual rest and peace as well. "Come to Me, all you who labor
and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to
you; not as the world gives do I give to you" (John 11:28; 14:27). When it comes to the
greatest matter of all (getting to know the Lord better), God must give to us what is
required for such growth: "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may
give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him" (Ephesians 1:17).
All of these precious benefits from God are a result of His giving of His grace into our
lives.

Will the giving heart of God ever cease toward us? We need never fear that God will tire
of giving us grace. "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to
give you the kingdom" (Luke 12:32).

"Lord God, giver of every gift of grace, I thank You for the rich and extensive grace that
You have given to me. Help me to understand that all of Your kingdom is brought into my
experience by the giving of Your grace, in Jesus' name, Amen."