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Start with a Dictionary Definition

Sounds obvious right? Nowadays the dictionary is an app and an auto-corrected word away. Facebook and Twitter have web browsers and so are capable of giving you quick answers. So, here is your top Google definition.

First, we need to notice the Christian definition of the noun, grace, comes in third place. Google defines it as favor, specifically God’s unmerited favor, as manifested in the forgiveness of our sins. While I think forgiveness is a big component of grace, it is only the tip of the iceberg. We have to get deeper into the text to determine what comes next. For example, we speak of the graces of the Holy Spirit. We can determine that the Holy Spirit is bestowing something upon us. Perhaps we need that forgiveness first but then there are actions to be taken. These actions are accomplished by grace.

Second, grace is also a verb – to do honor or credit to someone via your presence. The verb, grace, is perhaps most overlooked when we think about the word from the Christian perspective. After all, isn’t the whole point of Christianity to abide in the presence of God?

Think about the verb grace today. Define it in your own life. Do you allow God to grace you with God’s presence? Let me know what you think in the comments or via email or social media.

This is the second post in the grace series. I am going to keep it mixed up with both long and short articles about grace. I hope to give you some quick actionable tips or thoughts. Also, I want to give you the opportunity for deeper dives. Check back tomorrow for a deeper dive into how grace is linked into dignity. You can get all the email updates right here