Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. – Hebrews 4:16
The sound of running water immediately caught our attention one evening as we arrived home. Surely we didn’t leave the water running when we left for church, did we? Tracking down the source of the sound, we found that we had a substantial depth of water in our previously dry basement, and more continued to flood in from the window well of a closed egress window.
Further inspection yielded the reason for the swimming pool in the window well: our lawn sprinkler system had caught a fatal chill in the winter weather, and upon thawing, had sprung a leak. The next few hours were spent in a predictable fashion, which gave me a greater appreciation for shop vacuums!
When circumstances take an unpleasant turn—such as when we find a water leak, get a bad health report, have a car accident, our job is downsized, our appliances break down, or any other area of need—God’s abundant grace is available. Our desperate shout, whispered prayer, or “Jesus, please help!” will reach the Lord directly. On such occasions, I have thought, Time to pull down a little more grace, and even have hummed the tune “He Giveth More Grace.” The result is exquisite; God gives grace to help in the time of need.
So, what exactly is grace? One definition is, “the influence or Spirit of God operating in humans to regenerate or strengthen them.” This influence gives us aid, and helps us maintain our equanimity in the face of trials. Grace is like padding on sharp edges, grease on new gears, cream in our coffee, or an increase in energy for the weary soul. Grace smoothes out the rough spots and reminds us that God is still in control.
Everyone we encounter will need grace at some time, but not everyone knows how to take advantage of this mighty blessing. So let us spread the word that this freely given, unmerited favor and love of God is there for all to draw on! No one needs to face the hardships of life alone and in misery: all may turn to God, who generously gives grace to the humble. He will cleanse the sinful heart and change the course of a life into paths of righteousness—a complete transformation! In Ephesians 2:8 we read, “For by grace are ye saved through faith.”
Thereafter, life is a daily walk with God, the source of this awesome legacy. Each time bumps come along in our lives, as they surely will, we can remember where our grace comes from and pull down a little more of this wonderful resource.