What does it mean to not receive God’s grace in vain? Quoting Isaiah 49:8, Paul emphasizes that it is to receive God’s favor and salvation today, right now (1-2). When we respond to God’s grace, his grace immediately takes effect in our lives.

It is also to let Christ live in us in every way (3-10). When facing hardship, persecution, and bad reports, we can get discouraged and act selfishly and grudgingly. In such circumstances, Paul commended himself in every way as a servant of God. This means that he relied on God, inquired of God, and obeyed God’s direction. Then, he could respond with great patience, purity, truthful speech, sincere love, and most of all in the Holy Spirit.

Not receiving God’s grace in vain is also to open our hearts wide toward hostile and unchanging people (11-13). Though the Corinthian believers misunderstood and criticized him, Paul did not close his heart. Instead, he opened wide his heart to them and spoke to them as his dear children. This reflects the heart of Jesus, who came to sinners first, forgave his enemies on the cross, and restored Peter after his failure.
Application: Father, we praise you for your grace that is as wide and as deep as the ocean. Help us to receive this grace every day and commend ourselves in your presence.
One Word: Receive God’s grace today