Living in the Grace Given Today

Written by Sarah Stoffel

There’s a great book series for kids called “The Wilderking Trilogy” by Jonathan Rogers.  In it, the protagonist Aidan receives instructions from a curious prophet whose advice is to “live the life that unfolds before you.” In the second book, Aidan struggles with heartbreak as he realizes his brother has been trying to force himself into a position of power instead of being content where he is.  His brother’s actions result in grim consequences. The prophet tells Aidan, 

“He’s thrown away the grace he was given because it’s not the grace he had in mind… There’s not much hope for a person who won’t live in the grace he’s given.” (The Secret of the Swamp King)

When I read 1 Corinthians 7, this trilogy’s theme about living the life that unfolds before you in the grace given today kept coming back to my mind.  From verses 17 to 27, we are given a commandment to live our lives within the situation the Lord assigned to us when He called us. Paul gives three examples in the text concerning hot topics of his day. 

• Circumcision – Past Life Choices
  We can’t change the past, but His grace is sufficient.
  • The circumcised need not undo their circumcision.
  • The uncircumcised need not get circumcised.
• Slavery – Current Life Choices
  We can make choices in the present, and God’s strength is perfected in our weaknesses. 
  • If you were a slave when God called you, it’s not your job to undo that before you start God’s work.  You are free spiritually.
  • If you can get freedom, try to! (1 Cor. 7:21) But, Paul says you’re still a servant to Christ.
• Relationships – Future Life Choices
  Don’t wait for a ‘picture perfect’ future. Let the power of Christ rest on you now. “Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called [wherever you are and whatever your situation is], therein abide with God.” [commentary added] (1 Corinthians. 7:24) 
  • If God calls you and you’re single, you don’t have to get married to start God’s work.
  • If you’re married when God calls you, stay faithful.

Do we throw away the grace God gives today for some “magic” grace of our own design, where all our worldly sorrows, concerns, and infirmities float away, so then we can really live out God’s calling?  God says no.  His grace for today is sufficient. Grace doesn’t get better as life gets better. It’s already better today, right where you are.  Are you living the life that unfolds before you with the grace given to you today? 

Grace doesn’t get better as life gets better. It’s already better today, right where you are.

2 Corinthians 12:9 – And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.