I think of 2 Cor. 9:8 as my life verse. “And God is able to make all grace abound to you so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” A few years ago Mark and Eva Boswell gave me a notepad which I really like. On its cover Eva had painted, “And God is able…” It’s my favorite notepad to have with me when leading a meeting. I try to think why I memorized the verse with the ‘and.’ For one thing, that is how we did it when I was young— no simplifying or leaving off beginning conjunctions was allowed then so it is a habit. But sometimes I do not follow that unnecessary habit. Why did I with this verse? I think it reminds me that whenever I need the verse there is usually a challenge presenting ‘and’ I can add the verse to the equation of life at that moment. The problem does not stand alone in my life, but it is connected in my mind and heart and in spiritual reality with the abounding and sufficient grace of my Savior. The ‘and’ reminds me to make that association. That is one key reason it is my life verse. The other reason is the way it uses the word all – ‘all grace’ is first. The verse begins with a focus on God’s help. Then it reminds me that I have that assistance in ‘all things,’ that is in all circumstances and at ‘all times.’ Whatever the problem or potential, God has made available all the grace I need.
Lord Jesus, please help me to claim this promise again for the challenges of today and every day , AMEN
