Grace: Hammock or Slingshot?

The Bible sets forth a shocking standard for believers. The normal Christian life should be so filled with humility, sacrifice, boldness, integrity and love that we stand out as outsiders and misfits in the world. Yet, statistically and experientially, we know that most believers fit in quite well into the culture. In an increasingly pagan culture, it is going to be more and more crucial that Christ-followers actually follow Christ in their daily lives. But how do we balance grace with the good deeds of this kind of life?

The Bible sets forth a shocking standard for believers. The normal Christian life should be so filled with humility, sacrifice, boldness, integrity and love that we stand out as outsiders and misfits in the world. Yet, statistically and experientially, we know that most believers fit in quite well into the culture. In an increasingly pagan culture, it is going to be more and more crucial that Christ-followers actually follow Christ in their daily lives. But how do we balance grace with the good deeds of this kind of life?

How do we fulfill the "normal" life of the believer: expecting persecution but praying for our enemies and rejoicing in our trials; humbling ourselves and honoring others; taking up our cross daily and laying our lives down for others; remaining pure and unstained by the world; being salt and light and Christ's ambassadors of reconciliation; doing good deeds with such love and consistency that they cause nonbelievers praise God?

The standard is simply too high–it's undoable. At least, it is within our own effort. This is where we must totally depend on grace. However, the mistake many of us have made is that our inability plus God's grace means that we shouldn't work at the Christian life. In fact, mention a higher standard for the Christian life in some circles and watch a "legalism" hunt that would do Charlie McCarthy proud.

Let's be clear, then: In grace, God saves us. In grace, God transforms us. In grace, God works in us to will and to do His pleasure. In obedience, we–saved, transformed, willing doers–cooperate for the life He would have us lead for His glory and human good.

Through grace, we have the ability to abide in Christ, be filled with the Holy Spirit, approach the Father's throne. Because of grace, we can love more and serve more and sacrifice with joy. We can live with a purity that stands out. We can fight for justice where there is none. Because of the grace shown to us, we can be messengers of the Gospel to those who need grace, too. Grace gives us the relationship with the One who directs and empowers us.

Grace isn't a hammock to nap in until we die. Grace is a slingshot to the abundant, adventurous, dependent life God has for us.