Grace (2)

by Donald G. Hayter

Grace is a spontaneous benevolence and a sincere and heartfelt intent of good towards others. It springs unprompted by any outside influence, for it is an expression of what is within, rather than the condition of the recipient. Grace is made the more attractive and is magnified if it is displayed to the unworthy, but it may equally be bestowed on the deserving and exemplary. The grace of God was on the little Boy Jesus, the most noble of all the sons of humanity (Luke 2:40). It is lavished on us, the least worthy, and thereby its glory and magnificence is made the more radiant and comely.

Grace is not an act but a condition, deep seated in the spirit. From it issues gracious deeds; but these are evidence of what is within. Christ, the Word of God, was full of grace. All He did was an overflow of the joy within Him. He was gracious as is His Father, so that from Him came forth gracious words and deeds. He was graceful in every aspect of His being, thought and word and deed. Nothing is more lovely to behold than a gracious person whose conduct springs out of an inward joy and beauty of spirit. One only lived such a life at all times--our Lord, Jesus Christ.

The gracious One is well-wishing, kindly, benign, good and affectionate. He is not indulgent of evil or feeble in the face of opposition, or lax in the presence of that which should be condemned. Grace and truth are inseparable partners. Grace does not compromise over truth, either in conduct or doctrine. It does not pay court to, or ingratiate itself, with the proponents of error, but is firm and unyielding in its adherence to what is seen to be right. It is, however, tolerant and understanding and persuasive. It is not a languid, anemic characteristic, but a potent, irresistible force, springing from inward convictions firmly founded on truth and the power of God.

We cannot separate grace from joy. They are closely linked in the language of inspiration and are inextricably united in their essence. The one who is joying and rejoicing in the God Who is revealed in Christ, in the evangel of His grace, must show this inner harmony in goodwill and favor to others. Grace is generated by contact with the gracious God, and it is a realization of His favor that sets the heartstrings vibrating with a melody which is unrestrained and becomes apparent to others in gracious words and deeds. Grace should characterize and permeate every detail of our walk now in this day of undiluted favor.

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