“The race is not for the swift, nor the battle for the strong, neither is first class to the one who is always at the library studying, nor a UEFA semifinal qualification to the team leading 4:1, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favour to men of skill…”

When I first read the actual verse, I was shocked and had a big question in mind: “What then brings victory in a race/battle? What brings bread, favor and riches? What is it, what could it be?“

Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. ~ 2 Peter 1:1-2 #Bible

At the start of his letter Peter doesn’t leave us guessing about who he is. This is the first bishop of the church and I believe we should take his words seriously.

Secondly, he does not leave us second guessing who his message is for. It is for you and I, and all who have received the precious faith like theirs. Beloved, the faith and salvation he received is the same as yours, never look down on yourself. Now he begins with the greeting: Grace and Peace be multiplied unto you.

Hear me, these are one of the best phrases we can hear and wish for in life. Because in this life we need grace and peace. We’ve got to work hard, that’s true. But see, you can work hard ‘saah’ till you realize that, “indeed the race is not to the swift…”

Some people can really study yet the results come and they’re failing. You work so hard at something and yet little results to show and you’re wondering, “what at all brings success?” If you’re here like me with that question in your mind, let me suggest to you that it is the Grace of God that brings success in life.

I pray that grace opens inexplicable doors for you at the right time. See, there are some points in life that we get to, points at which unless grace steps in, we know we’re done for. Even the unbelievers know this and cry out to God during such times.

Be it a difficult exam, terminal illness of yourself or a loved one, deep financial or emotional crisis, terrorist attacks, they know to turn to God for grace. Thank God Christ Jesus has given you and I free access to this grace. Therefore, we can walk boldly to the throne of grace to find grace and obtain mercy in time of need.

Beloved, if there’s anything you need in life, let it be grace, mercy and peace. David said, “surely goodness and mercy shall follow me, all the days of my life.”

The blessings in Psalm 23 signify riches, peace, favor, bread, security, etc. and David leaves us not in doubt as to how access them: “The Lord is my shepherd; the Lord leads me; He makes me lie down; He prepares a table…etc.” David was simply saying, all these blessings I have and need, they are just by the grace of God!

May Grace and peace be multiplied to you today. Stay blessed and share with friends and family.

#AloneWithGodDevotional