I’ve mentioned before that one of my favorite verses in the Bible is I Corinthians 15:10 where the Apostle Paul writes, “But by the grace of God I am what I am…” Paul recognizes that if he is able to do anything for God, then it is because of God’s grace! The very definition of grace is something that is given but not deserved. The fact that God keeps loving us is an act of grace.

I usually think of Popeye when I read or think about this verse: “I yam what I yam…” Remember Popeye’s song:

I’m strong to the finich, ‘cause I eats me spinach.
I’m Popeye the Sailor Man! (Toot, toot)

Popeye ate spinach, which gave him sustenance to fight Bluto in order to save Olive Oyl. As a follower of Jesus, Paul recognized that it is God’s grace that makes us who we are, gives us meaning and purpose in life, and gives us the desire and ability to do what He calls us to do. I think I’ll take God’s grace over a can of spinach any day of the week. God’s grace is sufficient for us.

Do you remember the old Popeye cartoons? There always seemed to be a can of spinach lying around when Popeye needed it the most. Grace is a lot like that - always there when you need it. Unlike spinach, the best thing about grace is that it doesn’t come in a can to be opened when we think we need it. Grace has been given, is being given now, and will continue to be given in the future according to the graciousness of the God who gives it!

We can cook up or buy spinach for ourselves, but God’s grace is not something we can have control over. He gives it freely. Plus, as God’s chosen people, we are known as receivers and givers of grace. This week, find a way to freely give grace to others; because grace has been freely given to you.