Discovery
Grace Provides Space
In Monday’s meditation, I wrote about the vital importance of God’s grace individually and with family. For me, discovering more about God’s grace has been pivotal in my faith journey.
A few months ago, I had a conversation with my younger daughter about grace. She told me her husband had been miffed with her because he thought she extended too much grace to their seven-year-old son.
This little guy is our youngest grandchild and is delightful. With red hair, blue eyes and freckles, he is adorable. He’s also witty, sensitive, charming, intelligent, and passionate about all “things” basketball. His young personality matches his bright red hair, and he can also be loud, impulsive, stubborn, and occasionally downright ornery! We love this little guy, and as grandparents, see promise and possibility. We know our grandson will grow into the best parts of his “big” personality.
Without forethought, I told my daughter, “You cannot give too much grace!”
Afterward, I wondered if this comment was indeed sound. Questions arose. Does giving grace to a misbehaving child negate the necessity for discipline? Can giving grace create a sense of careless entitlement?
My thoughts even travelled to warnings about “cheap grace” from the German theologian, Dietrich Bonhoffer, who resisted the Hitler regime and was executed at the age of only 39.
Discipline is an essential aspect of personal growth. We don’t need to watch much evening news to realize the world is full of rebellious adults who lack self-discipline and may not have been wisely disciplined as children. Fair discipline is vital to raise a child who will grow into a considerate, responsible citizen.
The writer of Hebrews says, “God disciplines the children he loves.” At one time, I balked at this verse, but through years of learning more and more about God’s character and love, I now welcome—at times invite—God’s discipline because I realize God knows me perfectly and loves me unconditionally. God’s discipline and my cooperation will always produce transformational joy, peace, and self-control.
Still, I kept wondering, is it possible to give too much grace?
My conclusion was no, it is not possible to give “too much” grace because when I’m in doubt, giving GRACE provides SPACE to consider an important next step.
“Grace Space” allows a cooling-off time, which prevents the parent of a misbehaving child from reacting, not considering key contributing factors, or inflicting punishment that may harm more than help her child. (Oh, how guilty I have been of reacting!)
For the adult who needs to resolve an interpersonal dispute, “Grace Space” provides opportunity to ask God for wisdom for when, where, and how to conduct a necessary crucial conversation or take the next best action step.
Before reacting, “Grace Space” can help prevent hard feelings, regrets, or the need for Mea Culpas. I have learned—at times the hard way—that waiting and praying about a situation, plus confessing wrongs to my God of Grace who always teaches and forgives, are more beneficial and less humiliating than needing to admit I was wrong and asking a person—who may or may not be particularly grace-filled—for forgiveness.
God’s grace has been described as “extravagant.” I imagine this godly characteristic is worth imitating.
Blessings on your journey of grace,
