Thankful for His grace

Adam’s one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone. Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous. God’s law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:18-21 This is the day set aside in United States to give thanks to the Source of all the blessings given for the past year. Historically, Thanksgiving Day was proclaimed and designated as a day to give thanks for the bountiful harvest. Families are gathered to enjoy the material blessings but spiritually, this day is designed to proclaim the greatness and faithfulness of God. Christians have much more to give thanks. Yes, it is proper to recognize God for His material blessings, but more than anything else, the one thing that we should be thankful for is His grace. This is what the apostle Paul was writing about from the text. He was telling Christians that because of God’s abundant grace demonstrated on His death on the cross, sins were forgiven and His righteousness obtained. Christians are no longer enslaved by sin that brought about death but the new life that only comes from God through Jesus Christ. God’s grace overwhelmed sin that it has no hold in one’s life and removed guilt. “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it” (Ephesians 2:8-9). When you look back on the things that you are grateful for, do not forget to include the abundant grace you received if you have already surrendered your life in Christ. Always remember that this is the greatest blessing that you can have in your life. 2 Corinthians 9:15 says, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” Do not let the attitude of being grateful wear off instead let it be included in what describes your life as a child of God. And also do not forget, no matter what He has already freed you from, He will continue to free you from so much more.

Blessings.