A Dying Man’s Charge: Day 5
Day 5: Sustained by Grace
Devotional
Have you ever tried to accomplish something that felt completely beyond your abilities? Maybe it was a work project, a relationship challenge, or a personal goal that seemed impossible. In those moments, we quickly discover that human strength has its limits. This is especially true when it comes to the work of the church. Paul's final words to the Ephesian elders included a beautiful truth: this work has never been sustained by human grit—it's sustained by divine grace. The same grace that saves us also forms us, trains us, and changes us. Grace doesn't just pardon our past; it empowers our future. This is incredibly encouraging because it means the church's success doesn't depend on having perfect people or flawless leaders. The church is not built on good people trying harder—it's built on forgiven people trusting Jesus. The door into the flock isn't self-improvement; it's faith in Christ. Your inheritance as part of God's church is more secure than all the gold in Fort Knox because it doesn't depend on your performance. It depends on God's unchanging character and His unshakeable promises. When you feel inadequate for the work God has called you to, remember that adequacy comes from Him, not from you. This doesn't mean we become passive or careless. Grace trains us to live godly lives and serve faithfully. But it does mean we can serve with confidence, knowing that God's power is made perfect in our weakness. When we fail, grace picks us up. When we succeed, grace gets the credit. As you face the challenges of living as part of Christ's church—whether it's serving others, resolving conflicts, or simply showing up consistently—remember that you're not doing this in your own strength. The same grace that brought you into God's family will sustain you as part of His church.
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,
training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions,
and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, - Titus 2:11-12
Reflection Question
In what areas of your church life do you need to stop relying on your own strength and start trusting more fully in God's grace to sustain and empower you?
“Grace doesn't just save you. Praise God that it does.
But grace also forms you. It trains you.
Grace doesn't just pardon you, it changes you.” - Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Lord, thank You that Your grace doesn't just save me but also sustains me. Help me to stop trying to serve You in my own strength and instead rely on Your power working through me. May Your grace be evident in how I love, serve, and commit to Your church. Train me through Your grace to live faithfully. Amen.