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Our Graciously Giving God

Romans 8:32
He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all – how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? (NIVUK)

How much do you think you are worth?  The value of anything is determined by the price it will attract.  So, the value of a human soul is measured by what God is willing to give to purchase it.  The answer should stagger us.  God the Father was willing to give His own Son's life so that we might belong to Him (John 3:16).  

Therefore, despite our sin, weakness, failing, laziness, and rebellion - we are infinitely more valuable to God than ever we might think.  And we know it because of the price that was paid for us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 1 Peter 1:18-19).  That is the basis of the gospel and the foundation of our faith.  Without our costly redemption we would have no place at all in God's family.  

Not only does salvation come at great cost to God (2 Corinthians 5:21), but God will also freely go on providing everything that we need (Philippians 4:19).  His investment in us is so great that He will not deprive His children of anything that is necessary to enable us to be like Jesus in character (Romans 8:29).  It is all part of His grace: we do not deserve it, but He freely gives it because we belong to Him and because He loves us.

God is not grudging.  He is abundant in His giving (Ephesians 3:20).  His character is full of grace: giving is in His nature and He delights to hear and answer our prayers (John 16:24).  So when He does not give us what we ask for, He knows that withholding or waiting is even more kind, because He can see the future and knows how to work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).  Wise Christians will confidently pray instead of worry (Philippians 4:6-7) and trust that when God says 'No' He is showing more love than if He said 'Yes' to what is not best.

Prayer 
Gracious Lord. Thank You for valuing me so greatly. I know that my life has been saved at the expense of Christ's death, and I am grateful that You invested so much in me. I am sorry when I grumble or complain about what I don't have; help me to believe that You will never withhold anything good from me. I am glad that You have denied me some things which would have led to ruin, because You love me. Help me to keep trusting You every day, confident in prayer and accepting of every answer. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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© Dr Paul Adams