What the grace of God means for Christians

Grace is undeserved love and God's favor

Grace, which derives from the Greek word charis of the New Testament, is the undeserved favor of God. It is the kindness of God that we do not deserve. We have not done anything, nor can we ever do to earn this favor. It is a gift from God. Grace is the divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration (rebirth) or sanctification; a virtue that comes from God; a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine favor.

Webster's New World College Dictionary provides this theological definition of grace: “The undeserved love and favor of God towards humans; divine influence that acts in a person to make the person pure, morally strong; a person's condition led to God through this influence; a special virtue, gift or help given to a person by God. "

The grace and mercy of God
In Christianity, the grace of God and the mercy of God are often confused. Although they are similar expressions of his favor and love, they have a clear distinction. When we experience the grace of God, we receive the favor we don't deserve. When we experience God's mercy, we are the spared punishment that we do deserve.

Incredible grace
God's grace is truly amazing. Not only does it provide for our salvation, but it allows us to live an abundant life in Jesus Christ:

2 Corinthians 9: 8
And God is able to make you abound in every grace so that, having every sufficiency in all things at all times, you can abound in every good work. (ESV)

The grace of God is available to us at all times, for every problem and need we face. God's grace frees us from the bondage of sin, guilt and shame. The grace of God allows us to pursue good works. God's grace allows us to be all that God wants us to be. God's grace is truly amazing.

Examples of grace in the Bible
John 1: 16-17
Because from its fullness we have received all, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (ESV)

Romans 3: 23-24
... because everyone has sinned and is deprived of the glory of God and is justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus ... (ESV)

Romans 6:14
For sin will have no dominion over you, for you are not under the law but under grace. (ESV)

Ephesians 2: 8
Because by grace you have been saved by faith. And this is not your own doing; is the gift of God ... (ESV)

Tito 2: 11
Because the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people ... (ESV)