See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you. - John 5:14
The prince
of a small, oil-rich Asian nation was indicted for allegedly squandering $16 billion of
his country's wealth. Over a 10-year period, the prince is believed to have lost huge sums
through poor judgment and bad investments. His nation's High Court said that he spent $2.7
billion just on aircraft, yachts, cars, and jewelry.
While shaking my head in disbelief, I had to ask myself if I too am guilty of recklessly
wasting riches - the riches of God's grace. If I have received His mercy and forgiveness
yet continue to yield to sin, I am squandering His grace.
After Jesus healed a man who had been an invalid for 38 years, the Lord said to him,
"See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you"
(John 5:14). It seems that Jesus was warning him not to waste God's healing touch on his
life. Paul too pleaded with the Christians in Corinth "not to receive the grace of
God in vain" (2 Corinthians 6:1). Indeed, God's grace should result in changed lives
(Titus 2:11-12).
As God freely forgives us, His grace opens the door for us to change. How tragic it would
be to fritter away a spiritual fortune instead of allowing "the riches of His
grace" to transform our lives! (Ephesians 1:7).
-DCM
Almighty God, Your grace impart,
Fix deep conviction on each heart;
Nor let us waste on trifling things
The life that Your salvation brings.
-Anon.
To avoid disgrace, grow in grace