Daily Journal- Stengthened by Grace

SCRIPTURE:
... be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus ... (2 Timothy 2:1)

OBSERVATION:
The apostle Paul is encouraging young Timothy in how he should live his Christian life and conduct his ministry. He tells Timothy to be "strengthened by grace". In other words, "be strengthened by the fact that God shows you favor even when you don't deserve it" or, "be strengthened by the fact that you deserve to go to hell, but God is so kind and merciful that he chose to transform your life and grant you eternal life in heaven". If those truths don't strengthen you, I don't know what will.

APPLICATION:
Being strengthened by grace! What a powerful mind blowing concept! Actually, its not a concept at all, it should be a reality in my life! So many times I try to be strengthened by my own effort and performance. But Paul says, "be strengthened by the grace that comes from Christ Jesus". The grace of God is so opposite to our concept of performance and good works to please God. The Bible clearly says that we are to live and grow in grace, but we forget that very easily.

PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank you for your grace and your mercy. May your grace strengthen me today. In Jesus name, Amen!