The Increasing Gift

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:10)

What do you think that “gift” is that Peter makes mention of? That gift is the gift of grace. The Greek word used for gift is “Charisma” the same word used for grace!

Most folks define grace as God’s unmerited favor, which is true. Grace is God’s gift in that it is freely given to us by God. It is His free will offering to whomever He chooses. The actual gift though, is God’s character, attributes, and empowerment. But the main point to take away from the verse is that grace is a gift that is meant to be given. As you so freely receive, you in turn are to freely give! You never have to worry about God’s grace running out or diminishing because, “the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant” (1 Timothy 1:14). Even when sin comes a knockin’, “grace did much more abound” (Romans 5:20)

Grace is given to those who believe. Grace is multiplied when it is given.

Grace was demonstrated by Jesus when He feed the 5,000 men and untold women and children with just 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. When His disciples gave these morsels to the masses not only did it feed them all but they, “were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.” (Matthew 14:20)

Grace (5 loaves and 2 fish) was given to Christ. He in turn gave it to the masses. Grace came back to Him multiplied. But realize this one thing. The true miracle and benefit of this event was not the miracle of the increase in food, it was the benefit of the people. Both their stomachs and their souls were filled, refreshed and quickened.

Believe and have faith in God and His grace. Give of that grace. Go feed the masses with just a few loaves of bread and fish.

Bill Hitchcock