9/7 Ephesians 4:7

⁷ But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.

God's grace is poured out on all because of Christ Jesus. Many will reject that grace. It is like the loving instructions and gifts of a parent with their children. Each child will have the grace given to them according to their need. We need to give some of our children more grace than we give others. Any child can receive that grace or reject it and rebel against it.

Children who live in complete rebellion will most likely not receive gifts. But those who live in grateful appreciation for grace and gifts previously given will most likely receive more. Those gifts will be given according to each person's individual calling and abilities.

At some time in life, the rebellious children may turn back and accept grace and become even more grateful because they realize to a greater extent how undeserving they have been. A parent may give them gifts the other children are jealous of and think are undeserved. But all gifts of grace are undeserved. That is the message of the older brother in the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-31). Sadly, some children will reject grace given them until the day they die. A loving parent will continue their willingness to extend grace until that day comes.

Consider: How gracious has God been with you? How gracious should you be toward others?