The Sufficient Grace of God: A Two-Part Teaching

Anchoring Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9

Part 1: The Grace That Follows Commission

God's Grace in Service

Brethren, the work we do in the house of the Lord is not for man but for God. The very moment we genuinely commit to serving in any department of the church, God releases His grace upon us to fulfill our assignment (2 Corinthians 12:9, John 11:47-53).

Grace comes with unique blessings. However, if we seek personal gain from our service, we may soon find that our efforts will not sustain us. True grace is what carries us through challenges and ensures we complete the work assigned to us (1 Corinthians 7:20-21, Acts 13:4-5, Exodus 33:11).

The Honor of Service

To be a minister means to be devoted to service, particularly in the body of Christ (Exodus 28:41). There is an honor that accompanies service in the house of the Lord—it is called Grace!

God's grace is inherently tied to His servants. Moses was described by God Himself as His servant. If anyone calls you a servant of God, do not feel offended; rather, count it a privilege (Numbers 27:18).

Grace for Leadership Comes Through Service

A great leader is first a servant. Many miss this truth because of pride. Some hold titles but lack the spiritual qualification to lead because they have not embraced service (2 Kings 3:11, Hebrews 5:4).

God equips each of us to accomplish His purpose. His grace enables us to achieve the impossible. Service to God should not be seen as a burden but as an opportunity to walk in His grace (1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Ephesians 4:12-13).

The Danger of Seeking Recognition

Brethren, do not serve with the intention of being noticed by pastors or fellow brethren. Everything must be done as unto God. The struggle comes when we try to force ourselves into roles where God has not placed us. When we understand the principle of grace, we will not need to struggle. If you constantly struggle in a ministry, it may not be where God has called you.

Seek the Lord to discover your calling, the area where His grace is most evident in your life.

How to Discover Your Calling

Serve! When you serve, you gain experience and quickly discern whether God has graced you for that work. True leaders emerge through service. God sees and rewards even secret efforts that go unnoticed by men.

The Key to Receiving More Grace

Humble yourself! God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

Part 2: The Grace to Live a Christian Life

From creation, God has given man the grace to live a morally upright life (Romans 2:13-15). Our conscience serves as an internal guide to righteousness. However, when we are born again, another measure of grace is released, enabling us to live according to God’s will.

The Battle Against Sin

The moment we give our lives to Christ, Satan becomes our enemy. The world is increasingly sinful, but God provides a way of escape when temptation arises (1 Corinthians 10:13). The more a situation is sinful, the more grace God releases to help us overcome. However, we must not abuse this grace.

Growing in Grace

Are you growing in grace or taking advantage of it? If you deplete the measure of grace upon your life, you will fall into sin. The virtue of humility is often misunderstood today, with some equating it to low self-esteem. However, the more you are mocked for your humility, the more grace God bestows upon you.

Carrying Your Cross

When faced with temptation, ask yourself: "Would Christ do this?"

Surround yourself with people to whom you are accountable. God will always provide a way out of sin. We must never reach a point where we feel too strong to remain humble. Human nature craves recognition, but we must prioritize God’s approval above man’s.

The Importance of God's Grace

Paul received extraordinary revelation, yet he understood that salvation is entirely by grace. The moment a man of God begins to think he is accomplishing things by his own strength, he is on dangerous ground (Deuteronomy 8:18).

Many preachers misuse Romans 5:20 to justify sin, but scripture warns against continuing in sin under the pretense of increasing grace (Romans 6:1). The grace required to live holy in Abraham’s time differs from today’s, but God's grace is always sufficient to counter any attack of the devil.

The Danger of Abusing Grace

Some Christians still struggle with sins they should have outgrown. We must not take God's grace for granted (Ezekiel 3:20).

Reflect on your life: Are you growing or stagnant? Are you increasing in God’s word? Is the grace upon your life increasing or decreasing (Colossians 1:10)?

Prayer Points

1. Father, please give me the grace to humble myself.

2. May we walk in the abundant grace of the Lord, in Jesus' name. Amen.

3. Father, do not let me get to the point where I feel I don’t need to prepare.

4. Lord, help me never to forget my source.

5. Father, restore and replenish Your grace upon my life.

6. Lord, do not pass me by. Let Your grace overflow in my life.

7. Father, multiply the grace upon my life in all areas.

May we always abide in the sufficient grace of our Lord, in Jesus’ name. Amen!

Shalom!