Last week we looked at some of the attributes of Grace. We disc ussed saving grace, Gods power for salvation. Grace as a gift, because God is good despite us. Sanctifying grace, Gods power in us for doing right. Let us continue to explore this inexhaustible subject.
Strengthening grace, Gods power working in our lives enabling us to live victoriously. The Old Testament writers touched on the subject throughout. Exodus 15:2 “The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” Nehemiah 8:10 “for the joy of the Lord is your strength” are just a few. In fact, the word strength and its derivations are mentioned over 360 times in the Bible, applying to both natural and supernatural strength. The Bible often attributes strength to the Lord God’s power. The Psalmist continues with Psalm: 121:2 “I lift my eyes to the mountainswhere does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Isaiah 41:10 “so do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am you God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
As we jump to the New Testament Paul in the book of Romans does a good job detailing this power, “For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:17.
Paul continues expounding on this strengthening grace in his letter to the Philippian church. Paul is in prison and is writing what is essentially a thank-you letter. As he details the living conditions in Philippians 4:11-13 “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things, I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strentheneth me.” Not only is Paul utilizing this strengthening grace, but he is encouraging and thanking the Philippians from prison. Now that is victorious strength talking!
