Using Our Common Resource

I have spoken with many final year students and recent graduates and most of them have the same feeling about their performance, 'I know I could have done better'. Just when it is all over or about to be over, people begin to see that they have more ability than they previously thought. Many times I also feel likewise. Somethings that I could do today with my eyes closed once dreaded me. Though it is a common experience, it is never a good feeling to look back and realize you've underutilized the ability and privileges that God has given you.

What exactly is the common resource being referenced in this article? It is GRACE. The bible says, 'For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,' (Titus 2:11). The grace of God has appeared to all men, but not many ever take advantage of it. It is God's intention that we all have access to the full benefit of the grace that he has made available to all of us. Even the great grace that is naturally lavished on us after salvation.

How painfully many constantly pray for grace even when it is already made available to them. There is nothing wrong with praying for grace, as the bible made it clear that grace could be increased or even multiplied. 'But he gives us more grace. ' (James 4:6) However, receiving grace has little or no benefit if it is not utilized. The grace that giveth salvation has appeared to all men, but it is of little benefit to those who are unable or refused to leverage it.

I strongly believe that if all the people praying for grace could start using the grace that God has made available for them, they will be amazed by the quality of divine resources at their disposal. Paul said, 'But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.' (1 Corinthians 15:10) Paul recognized that he had to work very hard to ensure that the grace that God has bestowed upon him is not in vain.

You have been praying for it, and grace has been supplied to you. It is time to strive to maximize the grace that you have. Don't let it be in vain, take full advantage of it. The beauty of it is that as one begins to utilize grace, more grace is constantly being supplied to the person. Therefore, one of the sure ways to receive more grace is to faithfully utilize the available grace. You can't open your eyes sincerely without being amazed by the magnitude of grace and privileges that you already have. Use it!.

Finally, Paul wrote, 'I do not frustrate the grace of God' (Galatians 2:21). That is a great commitment that each of us has to make. A decision to never frustrate the grace of God that has been bestowed upon us. Take a stand, make up your mind and commit to it: 'I will never frustrate, neglect, or ignore the grace of God in my life'. When you begin to humbly maximize 'the common resource' or available grace, God will give you special resources and multiply your grace, and you won't even have to pray for it. Praise God!