What’s So Amazing about Grace (2 of 9)

Grace that Sustains Us

Series: What’s So Amazing About Grace? (Pt 2 of 9)

Philippians 1:6; 1 Peter 5:12

Introduction: Matt 24:13

“God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished.” (Phil 1:6 NLT)

I. What is GOD’S SUSTAINING GRACE?

“My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that the grace of God is with you no matter what happens.” (1 Pet 5:11 NLT)

A. Helps Me Keep Standing When I’m Tempted

1 Pet 5:8; 1 Cor 10:13

“Watch out for attacks from the Devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour. Take a firm stand against him, and be strong in your faith.” (1 Pet 5:8 NLT)

B. Helps Me Keep Standing When I’m Tired

Gal 6:9; 2 Cor 1:21-22; Gal 2L20; Phil 2:13; 2 Cor 9:8

“It is God who gives us ... the ability to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, and He has identified us as His own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts...” (2 Cor 1:21-22 NLT)

“For God is at work within you, giving you the will and the power to achieve His purpose.” (Phil 2:13 Phil)

C. Helps Me Keep Standing When I’m Troubled

Jn 16:33; 1 Pet 4:12; Isa 41:10; Ps 46:1

“Don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you: I will support you with My right hand that saves you.” (Isa 41:10 NCV)

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” (Ps 46:1 NLT)

I. HOW DO I RECEIVE GOD’S SUSTAINING GRACE?

A. Cry Out For God’s Help Jas 4:6-8

“God gives grace to the humble. So give yourselves completely to God ... Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you.” James 4:6-8 (NCV/NLT)

B. Fill Your Mind with God’s Word “I am ... completely discouraged; revive me by Your Word.” (Ps 119:25 NLT)

C. Accept Support from God’s People

“Help carry each other's burdens. In this way you will follow Christ's teachings.” (Gal 6:2 GW)

D. Hold On to God’s Promises

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the week. Even youths grow tired ... but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” (Isa 40:29-31 NIV)

“So we don’t look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.” (2 Cor 4:18 NLT)

“I begged the Lord three times to take this problem away from me. But He said to me, “My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, then My power is made perfect in you.” (2 Cor 12:8-9 ICB)