MIF 6:3 (May-June 1974)
Editorial
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” Titus 2:11-12
If any one trait symbolizes Christian living it is grace. It is by God’s sovereign grace we are saved (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is by His grace we are sustained, physically and spiritually. Through grace the Holy Spirit motivates and enables us to live and “serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear” (Hebrews 12:28b).
Grace is the presence of God’s divine influence in the believer and is shown by his relations with others. From John’s Gospel to Jude’s Epistle, grace is seen as the principle which governs Christian conduct. Grace is kindness, humility, patience, and tolerance of the weaknesses and faults of others. Grace never offends, never inflicts pain; grace is concerned with overcoming, rather than creating, obstacles that hinder smooth human relations. Grace shows a sensitive regard for the comfort and feelings of others, never judging or ridiculing. Grace is merciful to the handicapped, the timid, the lonely, and the defenseless, thus fulfilling the law of Christ by helping bear their burdens. Grace enables the Christian to live an orderly life in the midst of adversity and confusion, bringing glory to God’s Name. In other words, grace is love in motion.
If living by the principles of grace seems like a superhuman task, it is because we try to do it in our own strength alone. It is only when we stop trying to live by the energy of the flesh, and put complete reliance on the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit that we begin to live under grace, victoriously.
“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you: that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” —2 Corinthians 9:8