By the Grace of God: Humility, Confidence, and Purpose
The grace of God is a gift of infinite value, poured into our lives not because we deserve it but because of His boundless love. In a recent reading from My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers challenges us to examine how we respond to this grace. Do we humbly receive it, or do we inadvertently resist it through false humility or self-doubt?
Chambers draws from 1 Corinthians 15:10, where Paul proclaims:
"But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain."
Paul’s words reflect a life wholly dependent on God’s grace—a life where humility before God coexists with bold confidence in His transformative power.
False Humility: Insulting the Creator
Chambers makes a striking observation: when we continually speak of our inabilities, we dishonor the God who created us. Statements like “I’m no saint” or “I could never be sanctified” may sound humble to others, but from God’s perspective, they are acts of defiance. These words suggest that God’s grace is insufficient, that He cannot do what He has promised. This is astoundingly insightful, and has vast implications for our life in Christ.
For example, this mindset denies the very truth of the gospel: that God saves, sanctifies, and uses us not because of our abilities but because of His grace. 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us of this reality:
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."
When we embrace false humility, we place limitations on God’s work in our lives. True humility, however, abandons self-reliance and rests fully in His sufficiency.
True Humility: Confidence in Grace
The opposite of false humility is a bold confidence that acknowledges what God has done and is doing. This confidence may appear boastful to others, but before God, it is the pinnacle of humility. Chambers explains:
"If you say, ‘Thank God, I’m saved and sanctified,’ people might think you’re bragging. But in God’s eyes it’s the pinnacle of humility."
True humility allows God to be “all in all” (1 Corinthians 15:28) in our lives. It shifts the focus from ourselves—our shortcomings, our fears—to God’s power and faithfulness. This humility brings freedom, enabling us to proclaim, like Paul, “By the grace of God I am what I am.”
One Relationship Above All
Chambers also emphasizes the primacy of our personal relationship with Christ. This relationship is the foundation for everything else. He writes:
"Only one relationship matters, and that is your personal relationship to a personal Redeemer. Maintain this relationship at all costs, letting go of everything else, and God will fulfill His purpose through you."
When we prioritize our relationship with Jesus, we align our lives with God’s purposes. Chambers reminds us that our individual lives hold priceless value to God’s plans. Whether we see it or not, God can use us to bring His light and love to the world around us.
Grace That Is Not in Vain
The grace of God, when fully received, is never in vain. It transforms, equips, and empowers us to live lives that glorify Him. This grace compels us to act—not to earn His favor but as a response to His love. Chambers echoes the words of James:
"Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (James 2:17).
The good deeds that flow from grace are not for boasting or performance. They are natural outpourings of a life surrendered to God, lived in gratitude for His grace.
Living in Grace: A Practical Call
How can we embrace the reality of God’s grace in our daily lives, avoiding false humility while walking in genuine confidence? Here are some practical steps to live in His grace with freedom and purpose:
1. Speak Truth Over Yourself
Reject the lies that belittle God’s transformative work in your life. Instead, declare His promises over yourself, aligning your thoughts and words with His truth. For instance, imagine a plant struggling to thrive in poor soil. When it’s moved to rich, nourishing soil, it begins to flourish. Similarly, spiritual growth happens when you feed your soul with the truth of God’s promises, such as, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
2. Acknowledge His Work
Boldly share what God has done in your life—not as a means of self-promotion, but to glorify Him. Whether it’s a story of healing, provision, or transformation, your testimony reflects His grace and invites others to trust Him.
3. Prioritize Your Relationship with Jesus
Grace flows from intimacy with Christ. Spend time in His Word and in prayer, opening your heart to His love and truth. Remember, He delights in you and longs for fellowship with you. Let this relationship become the anchor of your life. One meaningful way to deepen this connection is by journaling your conversations with Him. These reflections will not only strengthen your walk today but also become cherished reminders of His faithfulness in the days to come.
4. Act in Grace
Let the grace you’ve received inspire action. Step forward in faith, reflecting Christ’s love through good works. This isn’t about striving or pretending; it’s living out the truth of Galatians 2:20:
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me."
When you act in alignment with this reality, you’re not being hypocritical. You’re living out the truth that Christ is your life, trusting Him to express Himself through you.
Living It Out
Grace isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life. When you embrace His promises, acknowledge His work, grow in intimacy with Him, and act in faith, you reflect the beauty of His grace to the world around you.
What step can you take today to walk more fully in the reality of God’s grace?
A Prayer of Gratitude for Grace
Father, thank You for the gift of Your grace, poured out so abundantly in our lives. We confess to you the times we have diminished Your power through false humility or doubt. Thank you for teaching each us to walk in true humility, confident in Your sufficiency and faithfulness. May our lives reflect the fullness of Your grace, and may everything we do glorify Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.