Recognizing Grace

We hear much about grace. We know that it is the “unmerited favor” of God, but what exactly does it look like? How do we recognize it?

In a general sense, we can safely consider the gifts of life itself, and salvation as blessings of grace. Grace, however, certainly doesn’t end there. Ephesians 3:10 mentions the “manifold grace” of God, that is to say, “many-faceted.” The facets of a large diamond are not easy to count, and since God is infinite, there is no end to the manifestations of His grace.

Take a look at your life. What are some of the unexpected blessings, miracles, encounters or provisions God has given you? How has He strengthened, comforted, enabled, guided, protected or enlightened you?

In short, because God is not obligated to do anything for us, whatever good comes into our life is because of grace.

But, what about the bad stuff, the pain, the grief, the hardships…all of those things that cause us to suffer? God will accomplish His purpose through those areas of your life. In fact, even though you may not realize it, He is probably already at work. Ask Him to show you how He is working, and ask Him for faith to trust Him until He does reveal His hand.

I believe every Christian reaches a point where they look back on adversity and recognize how God was working. We see that what the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good.

Sooner or later, we realize that, for the child of God, anything that has God’s fingerprints on it is grace.