The Great Hope

• Besides salvation, what are some other examples of God’s grace that you’ve experienced?

• Why is it sometimes easy to overlook God’s gifts? How can you keep from doing this?

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.
1 Peter 1:13

God’s ultimate work of grace will be revealed when the kingdom of God is realized in its fullness. But salvation is not the only form of grace we receive from God. We can find evidence of his grace in our lives every day.

Sometimes God gives physical things, such as much-needed college money or a dependable car. Other times he gives healing for ailments big and small. He gives direction when we’re not sure which way to turn, and he gives comfort when we’re hurting. He gives us peace of mind when we’re confused or stressed. Every one of those gifts is an example of his grace.

James 1:5 tells us that God gives wisdom generously to all. Lamentations 3:22-23 says, “His compassions never fail. They are new every morning.” Every gift God gives is linked to his grace. We don’t deserve anything he gives us. We’ve done nothing to earn it. Yet God loves to give, so we are the grateful recipients of his grace. We serve a generous, gracious God. And for that reason, we always have reason to hope — no matter what situation we’re facing.

PRAYER
Dear God, we see evidence of your generous grace everywhere. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for overwhelming us with gifts. Thank you for giving us hope. Amen.