Even Greater is God’s Wonderful Grace

For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.

Romans 5:17

Romans 5 outlines the terminal impact of Adam’s sin: because one man sinned, all will be condemned, all will die. Yet God’s grace revealed through Christ and his death is far more wonderful than Adam’s sin was terrible. By God’s amazing grace, we are set free from our bonds to Adam and his sin. We are invited to “live in triumph over sin and death,” both in this life and in the life to come.

Julia H. Johnston celebrates God’s wonderful grace in her beloved hymn: “Grace Greater than Our Sin”:

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary's mount outpoured,
there where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see his face,
will you this moment his grace receive?

Refrain:
Grace, grace, God's grace,
grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
grace, grace, God's grace,
grace that is greater than all our sin!

(verses 1, 4 and refrain; written 1911; public domain)

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: How have you experienced God’s wonderful grace in your life? How might your life be different if you remembered this grace consistently?

PRAYER: Dear Lord, indeed your grace in wonderful, more wonderful than I can possibly comprehend. Yet, as much as I can understand about your grace leaves me full of awe and gratitude.

Thank you, Lord, that your grace is not just greater than sin in general, but greater than my sin. How grateful I am that you have forgiven me through Christ. Moreover, you have showered your grace upon me again and again in this life.

Forgive me, Lord, when I forget your grace. Forgive me when I doubt your grace and try to earn your favor. Forgive me when, by neglecting your grace, I fail to be gracious with others.

May your grace fill my heart and my life, today and every day. To you be the glory! Amen.