Joyce Meyer Daily Devotional (November 18, 2024) Sin and Grace
But then Law came in, [only] to expand and increase the trespass [making it more apparent and exciting opposition]. But where sin increased and abounded, grace (God’s unmerited favor) has sur- passed it and increased the more and superabounded. Romans 5:20 (AMPC)
It is interesting to note that the only reason God gave the Law was to show us that we couldn’t keep it and needed a Savior. All the Law does is increase sin. But the good news is that where sin abounds, grace superabounds because grace is greater than sin.
If we love God, we will always do our best not to sin, but it is good to know that when we do sin, His grace is greater than our sin. Grace is undeserved favor, and I like to describe it also as God’s power to enable us to do what we need to do. It is not an excuse to sin and get away with that sin. It is the power to overcome sin and say no to it.
God’s grace is wonderful beyond comprehension. It is what changes us into the image of Christ as we learn to rely on it instead of relying on ourselves. Max Lucado said it well: “Grace is the voice that calls us to change and then gives us the power to pull it off.” And Saint Augustine said, “For grace is given, not because we have done good works, but in order that we may be able to do them.”
Prayer of the Day: Father God, Lord, thank You for Your grace that empowers me to overcome sin. Help me rely on Your strength and grow into the image of Christ every day, amen.
