“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Genesis 12:2-3
Most of us would be satisfied with life’s basics such as God, family and friendship. We would be content with working and having enough money to provide for our material needs. We would gladly share our time, talents, gifts and service to God through the church.
Yet, God gives believers more than what we need, ask for or hope for. One of the many names for God in the Old Testament is the name “El Shaddai” which translates “God Almighty” or “The All-Sufficient One. One classic example is the covenant God made with Abraham of old (Genesis 12:2-3). God promised Abraham not only that he would be the leader of great nation, but so much more.
Every believer receives from God more than what is needed to live the Christian life. Here are some examples:
1. More than enough grace to cover our sins.
In Ephesians 2:8, 9 we read, “We are saved by grace through faith.” This brings to mind the words of an old gospel hymn entitled “Grace Greater than All our Sins” (Julia H. Johnston). The refrain ends with the words, “… grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sins.”
2. More than enough grace to meet human suffering.
As Apostle Paul was experiencing his so-called “thorn in the flesh” he testified to the faithfulness of God when he stated, “Thy grace is sufficient for all my needs (2 Corinthians 12:9).
3. More than enough grace to live the Christian life.
In Ephesians 3:20 we read, “God is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine through His power at work within us.” Over the years, as a pastor, I have known some who felt they could not live up to all of God’s expectations. If this is you, just remember we never live the life God wants us to live without His empowering presence. God will give us more than enough grace if only we will ask Him and trust in His mighty power.
Our God is a “How-much-more” God. Why would we want anything less?
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for your all-sufficient grace. In Your strong name. Amen.
