Grace Teaches

I am sure most, if not all, of us have a favorite teacher from our elementary school days. Mine was my fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Esh. He exhibited a graceful calmness that seemed to fill the classroom. When he spoke, we listened.

He was not a pushover. These were the days when corporal discipline was still practiced, and Mr. Esh could administer it when necessary. I can count on one hand the times it was used. He did not need to shout or threaten to command the attention of his students. He possessed a quiet authority.

Like a general leading his troops or a bandmaster directing his marching band, he kept us moving together in the rhythm of learning. Though I never asked him, I am convinced he was a Christian, because he seemed to reflect the character of Christ.

He taught us many subjects. But looking back, I think he knew one subject especially well: grace.

The Bible tells us that grace is a teacher.

Titus 2:11–12

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”

Grace does more than forgive our past. Grace teaches us how to live in the present. Grace teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly desires. It teaches us to live with self-control in a world that is intoxicated with sin. It teaches us to live upright and godly lives when everything around us is pulling us in another direction.

Grace teaches us to look forward.

Titus 2:13

“While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

Grace keeps our eyes on the coming of Christ. We are not simply trying to survive this life; we are living in anticipation of the day when Jesus will return. What an amazing teacher!

Grace, the unmerited favor of God, encourages us when we are down. Grace corrects us when we wander. Grace guides us when the path is unclear. Grace reminds us that our failures do not have the final word. Grace continually points us toward the One who does.

Grace does not simply tell us that we are forgiven. Grace teaches us how forgiven people should live. So wherever you find yourself on the road of life, let grace have its perfect work in you.

Listen to its instruction. Receive its correction. Follow its direction. Because the grace that saved you is the same grace that will teach you, strengthen you, and carry you until the day you see Jesus face to face.

Grace is not only the gift that begins our journey. Grace is the teacher that helps us finish it.

With Gratitude, Pastor Jesse