As a young man, Robert Robinson (1735–1790) enjoyed getting into trouble with his friends, so the stories go. At 17 years old, though, he heard a sermon from Matthew 3:7, and realised his need for salvation in Christ. The Lord changed Robinson’s life, and he became a preacher. He also wrote several hymns, including his best known “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing”.

Lately I’ve been thinking about God’s amazing grace towards us and the last verse of that hymn: “O to grace how great a debtor daily I’m [made] to be!” The hymn brings to mind the apostle Paul’s words: “The love of Christ compels us . . . [to] live no longer for [ourselves], but for Him who died for [us] and rose again” (2 Cor. 5:14-15).

We can’t earn God’s love and grace. But because He has given it to us freely, how can we help but love Him in return by living for Him! I’m not exactly sure what that looks like, but it must include drawing near to Him, listening to His Word, serving Him and obeying Him with a thankful attitude.

As debtors, we are called to live each day for Jesus who gave Himself for us.

Those who know God’s grace show God’s grace.

Author

Anne Cetas

Topics

Our Daily Bread