Grace Is Not a Reward | Monday

Devotional

It is easy to read the story of Jonah and shake our heads at his attitude. He watched an entire city turn to God, and instead of celebrating, He was angry. But before we judge him too quickly, it is worth asking whether we have ever felt the same way. Have you ever quietly believed that some people are just too far gone? That certain people deserve what is coming to them?

Jonah knew God's character. He even recited it back to God word for word. His problem was not a lack of knowledge. His problem was that he had placed himself in a different category than the people he was sent to reach. He believed his faithfulness had earned him a higher standing. This same trap shows up in the parable of the prodigal son. The older brother stood outside the party, arms crossed, refusing to go in. He had done everything right, and it still was not enough to soften his heart toward his brother.

Both men forgot one thing. Grace is not a reward for good behavior. It is a rescue for people who could not save themselves. That includes you. That includes me. When we remember that, everything changes.

Bible Verse

"But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry." - Jonah 4:1

Reflection Question

Have you ever caught yourself believing that someone else needed more grace than you did? What did that reveal about how you truly see yourself before God?

Quote

We have a desire for change that everybody has, but then the skepticism"If we believe for a moment that it did not require much grace to save us, because we're pretty good people. You have completely misunderstood the Gospel of Jesus Christ." that real change can actually take place.

Prayer

Father, forgive me for the moments I have treated Your grace as something I earned. Remind me today that I am just as desperate for You as anyone else. Thank You for rescuing me anyway.