Wasting Grace
In 1940, over 300,000 Allied soldiers were stranded on the beaches of Dunkirk, surrounded by enemy forces. Their survival seemed impossible—until an unexpected rescue mission was launched. Civilian boats of all kinds crossed the English Channel to bring the soldiers home. Some hesitated to board—afraid, unsure, skeptical. But the boats wouldn’t wait forever. The rescue was real, but it required a response.
Paul writes with the same kind of urgency—not about a war rescue, but about the rescue God has already provided through Jesus. The question he raises isn’t whether grace is available. It’s this: Will we receive it—and live like it matters?
Scripture Overview
In 2 Corinthians 6:1, Paul says something that may have startled the church in Corinth: “As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain”
Was he saying that they weren’t truly Christians and needed to accept Jesus as their Savior? Or was he saying they weren’t living in light of the gospel? More than likely the answer is both.
Some might have heard about God’s grace through faith but never truly received it. Others may be believers but are treating God’s grace lightly—coasting, compromising, and avoiding the call to live as Christ’s ambassadors.
So Paul pleads: Be reconciled to God. Don’t waste the grace you’ve been given. This is a moment to respond—not someday, not eventually. Now is the day.
Things to Ponder
Are you sure you’ve received God’s grace by accepting Jesus as your Savior? If not, you can do so today. Be sure to reach out to your brothers and sisters in Christ to make them aware of your decision.
If you know you are saved, why do you think Paul still tells those who are saved to, “Be reconciled to God”?
What are some ways you can make the most of God’s grace in your life today?
Can you think of one way you could reflect God's grace more clearly this week?
Application Challenge
This passage is a fork in the road. Some of us may have believed in Jesus but have started coasting—treating God’s grace like background noise. Others may attend church but have never really yielded their life to Christ.
So here’s the challenge: Take the next step. If you’ve received grace, live like it. Who could you forgive, invite, or pray for? What small choice today could reflect Christ’s love in you? And if you’ve never truly responded to God’s grace, could this be the moment to say, “Yes, Lord. I believe. I want to be reconciled to You”?
Grace is real. The rescue is underway. Today is the day of salvation, so make sure you’re in the boat and live like Jesus is your rescuer.