What does this word conjure up to you? Do you think of kindness, hospitality, a calm spirit? Elegance and poise? Thinking of others first? A giving nature? Or does this remind you of Christ’s grace which He has given to us? I would like to discuss all of these things.
I have been recently aghast at the lack of book content and material on this subject. I borrowed a book from the library on it, but was in for a sore disappointment. The authoress filled her book with crude and course humor, explicit and graphic content, filthy words etc. This is what people think of as graciousness?!! I thought. The next few weeks were spent scanning library catalogues all over Michigan to see if there were any good books or articles on it. Aside from a few devotionals which briefly discuss the topic of God’s grace; I couldn’t really find anything. So lets explore this beautiful topic together.
To start with some definitions from Websters’s dictionary:
Grace- Definition 11 Theological a) The unmerited love and favor of God toward mankind b) Divine influence acting in a person to make the person pure, morally strong, etc. c) the condition of a person brought to God’s favor through this influence d) a special virtue, gift, or help given to a person by God
Gracious-1 Having or showing kindness, courtesy, charm, etc. 2 Merciful; compassionate
This definition of gracious doesn’t quite cover it. But maybe that is because this is a virtue spiritually discerned. But looking at the theological definitions provided for Grace hits closer to home. Thinking of God’s unmerited favor on us, and with His Holy Spirit producing fruit in us, we are enabled to show favor and mercy toward others. This in turn is to develop into a way of life that, yes, involves kindness and courtesy, but, oh, so much more.
When I think of Graciousness, I think of hospitality and service, pouring out one’s life for God and others as a living sacrifice. But Graciousness is also a virtuous spirit that enables us to pour ourselves out without being emptied. Because of and with God’s favor and light on us and in us, we are able to live with an inner strength and joy which maintains a calm spirit in the midst of tumult, a poise in the midst of uncertainties, a courage in the face of danger, and a love that never ends. Remember Paul’s words; ” Faith, Hope, Love, but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Cor. 13
Graciousness also leads to a queenly elegance (or a princely manner) wherein we act in a manner worthy of the children of the most High King. This does not lead to haughtiness or pride, but a humble love, assurance, and stability. God does not wish us to be timid soldiers of the cross, but tells us to walk in confidence in His Word. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of sound mind”
2 Tim. 1:7