The Grace That Completes the Work
Resting in the flow of the River
“From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed. And when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.”
(Acts 14:26-27)
Paul and his team had been entrusted to God’s grace as they set out on their mission, and upon their return, they could only testify to what God had accomplished. Their journey was marked by opposition, persecution, and hardship, yet also by miraculous breakthroughs, transformed lives, and open doors for the gospel. The work had been completed—not by their own strength, but by God’s sufficiency.
At every turn, whether facing a false prophet, rejection, or even the violence of stoning, the Lord’s grace carried them forward. They did not measure success by their endurance or ability but by the undeniable evidence of God’s hand at work. This is the life of faith—going where He leads, speaking as He empowers, and resting in the certainty that He will bring to completion what He has purposed.
It is easy to slip into thinking that God’s calling depends on our diligence or perseverance. Yet, Paul and his companions knew better. They had been commended to the grace of God—not to their own wisdom, skill, or endurance. From start to finish, this was God’s mission, accomplished by His power. They simply yielded to His leading.
Consider the steady current of a great river. A branch caught in its flow does not propel itself forward, nor does it resist the movement of the water. It is carried along effortlessly, guided by the unseen strength beneath it. So it is with the grace of God in our lives. He initiates the calling, sustains the journey, and ensures its fulfillment. Our role is not to strive but to rest in the current of His work, trusting Him to bring about His purposes.
Reflection Questions:
In what areas of life are you tempted to rely on your own effort rather than trusting in God’s grace?
How can you shift your perspective to recognize God’s work rather than focusing on your own performance?
What does it mean to be commended to the grace of God in your own walk with Christ?
Prayer of Trust:
Father, thank You for Your unfailing grace that carries every good work to completion. You have already provided all that is needed for the journey, and I rest in Your perfect sufficiency. Just as Paul and his team trusted in Your leading, I trust You to accomplish Your purposes in and through me. My confidence is in You alone, for it is not by might nor by power, but by Your Spirit that the work is done. Thank You for the privilege of walking in step with You, knowing that You are the author and finisher of all things. Amen.
📷 Photo Credit: Unsplash
📖 Devotional Source: Day by Day by Grace