November 18 Amazing Grace

2 Kings 7:6-7 For the Lord had made the army of the Syrians hear the sound of chariots and of horses, the sound of a great army, so that they said to one another, "Behold, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Egypt to come against us." 7 So they fled away in the twilight and abandoned their tents, their horses, and their donkeys, leaving the camp as it was, and fled for their lives.

THE Lord God has chased away Syria's army. They were prepared to destroy the city of Samaria that had been under the burden of a deadly siege. Even more, God has prepared a bounty of food, animals and shelter for the people living in the city of Samaria. Soon the people will hear the good news of their salvation. They will feast on the Lord's bounty. God's grace is about to pour forth to Samaria.

    There are two ways I see the Lord's amazing grace here. First, the people of Samaria did not deserve God's mercy. As we have seen in past readings, King Joram of Israel, along with all of the kings of Israel, led his people in idol worship. God's people lived in constant sin, neglecting their true God. Still, God delivered his people from certain death and conquest. By his grace they were physically saved.

    Second, we see God's amazing grace in the bounty of provisions. There is more in the Syrian camp than just enough to get by for a day or so. The Israelites will find enough food for days. They will also discover other wealth by which they can purchase goods. Samaria's starving city will be reenergized and life will begin anew out of the siege and into plenty for them.

    Now let's ask, "Do these two grace acts mean we can do whatever we desire and still be saved?" No ,it does not. We must remember the many who starved to death in Samaria under God's judgment. Today, many starve unto eternal death without faith in Jesus.  

    Do you live in God's gracious salvation? Then celebrate with eternal gratitude these words we often hear from Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." Yes, rejoice and know that graciously, God has called you out of sin's siege to enter the Kingdom of eternal bounty.

Prayer: O Lord, we pray for those who physically hunger this day. Grant them the bounty of your provisions. We pray for those who spiritually hunger. Grant them the bounty of your Kingdom. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.