The Precious Riches of Grace


“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us...made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” – Ephesians 2:4,6-7 (NKJV)

It’s a grim experience to stand before a stern judge. I’ve been there.More than 20 years ago, my husband and I traveled to Siberia to adopt our Russian son, Alex. We had heard the courtroom experience would be a simple rubber-stamp procedure. Instead, we were stunned to receive an icy reception. The judge badgered us with questions, putting us on trial to assess our potential as parents. 

My husband and I clutched hands during the recess as we silently prayed and awaited a verdict that could go either way. When the judge reappeared, she spoke a few words in Russian, pounded a gavel, and swept out with her robe flowing behind her. For a few seconds, we had no clue about the outcome. But when all pandemonium broke loose with hugs and smiles from our Russian adoption advocates, we knew Alex was ours. 

Mercy and grace are precious gifts. 

All of us will be on trial someday when we enter God’s royal chamber. He is the righteous Judge, the One who is perfect and holy. We will stand before Him as sin-infested defendants, guilty as charged, deserving a death sentence. The evidence is stacked against us. But as Christ-followers, we plead for mercy on the grounds that we have been claimed by the Judge’s Son.

While we await the verdict, Jesus steps forward. The gavel pounds, and He takes our punishment. We get off scot-free, pardoned, no more questions asked. That’s God’s mercy.

But His grace? That’s when we receive something more...His love. 

In Scripture, grace is written as Hebrew chên or Greek charis, words that describe graciousness, kindness, favor. They also mean joy, pleasure, or other “thanksworthy” blessings.

Grace brings unspeakable gifts on top of His mercy. Not only are we freed and forgiven, we also receive riches upon riches from our loving Father in the abundant life He gives us on earth and in heaven to come. 

Friend, if you’ve committed your heart to Jesus by the divine calling of His Holy Spirit, you are covered by His grace and favor, even in tough times, poverty, conflicts, or pain. Look for the evidence of His love in the constancy of His presence...in the faithful way He keeps His promises...in His provision of endurance and hope during suffering.

When you face a trial today, take a moment to come before God’s royal throne in prayer. Kneel before Him, plead for His mercy, and remind Him of His promises of grace. Take hold of the gifts He offers, and thank Him for the blessing of His love.

Whatever the outcome, rest in the assurance that you are safe in His arms and His love. His grace will bring you through, with His joy and peace.


Question for Reflection:

A simple question … why are you worthy of God’s grace?

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    Nancy C. Williams

    Nancy C. Williams is a Christian wife/mom with a writing career spanning more than 40 years. She’s also an adventure enthusiast who loves snow-skiing, making biscotti, taking photos, digging into fascinating stories from the past, and sharing a good laugh. Nancy is serious, though, about serving Jesus Christ—striving to encourage others on their spiritual journeys. She is author of the novel To Love a Falcon and devotional book A Crocus in the Desert: Devotions, Stories, and Prayers for Women Experiencing Infertility. To follow Nancy’s devotions and news, go to http://nancycwilliams.com and subscribe.

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