Discovering the Many Means of God’s Grace
In a world governed by God’s sovereignty, every aspect of life can be a means of experiencing His goodness. While some of these means are obvious, others may surprise us. The public ministry of the church, including preaching, sacraments, worship, and prayer, is a well-known source of spiritual nourishment. However, there’s another, often overlooked, means of grace: the example of others.
Learning from Others
Observing the attitudes and actions of those around us can be a powerful way to learn and grow. A parent’s patience with their child, a friend’s kindness in a difficult situation, or a stranger’s generosity can all be catalysts for spiritual growth. These everyday examples can inspire us to become more like Jesus.
Private Means of Grace
In addition to public ministry and the example of others, there are private means of experiencing God’s grace. Personal reading of Scripture, meditation, and prayer are essential disciplines for spiritual growth. Martin Luther, the great reformer, emphasized the importance of these practices, along with a third, often overlooked, means of grace: suffering.
The Refining Fire of Suffering
Luther called suffering the “touchstone” that proves our character and faith. It’s through hardships and afflictions that our prayers become real, and our meditation on Scripture gains traction. The Psalms, born out of pain and struggle, are a testament to the transformative power of suffering.
God’s Creation: A Means of Grace
The natural world is another means of experiencing God’s goodness. A breathtaking sunset, a majestic mountain range, or a beautiful work of art can all evoke a sense of awe and wonder. These moments can pull us out of ourselves and into a larger world, revealing the beauty and majesty of our Creator.
A God of Many Means
David Powlison, a wise teacher and counselor, reminds us that God has many ways of meeting us and transforming us into the likeness of Jesus. By recognizing and embracing these diverse means of grace, we can deepen our relationship with God and become more aware of His presence in every aspect of our lives. Whether through public ministry, private devotion, or the example of others, God’s grace is always available to us, shaping us into the people He created us to be.
Leave a Reply