Giving Up Grace

“Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs.” Jonah 2:8


A forfeit is no fun for anyone. A win without the competition is a hollow victory, and a loss without the struggle is frustrating and empty. A forfeit is giving up without trying and giving in without fighting. If we have the choice, we’d rather not forfeit in sports, so why do we do so with our souls? “Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs.”

Whom did Jonah have in mind when he made such a declaration? The heathens of Nineveh? The boys on the boat ? Or himself? I think all three. The Ninevites needed to let go of Ishtar worship. The sailors needed to grab hold of a powerful God. And Jonah—the one who had clung to his wants over God’s wishes finally realized God’s grace and was amazed. Michael Jackson wasn’t the only one talking to the man in the mirror; the application fit Jonah’s reflection—and ours.


Many are the idols in our lives which need to be toppled. Many are the deities that need to come down. Though are homes don’t boast icons and statues, our hearts find room for emotions and affections which crowd out Christ and His gifts of grace. Oh, we’re not counting on our idols for eternal salvation—we know better than that, but we want to hold them tightly with one hand while God holds our other hand close in His. We cling to power, significance, stuff, comfort, abilities, influence, money, our rights, our relationships, and our desires. On their own, all are worthless and will result in nothing that lasts very long. Only when we let go of ourselves and cling to Him will we discover the rich treasure of grace God longs to give.


Nobody wins when you forfeit grace, and much is lost when you won’t let go. Life, though busy and occupied, is hollow, frustrating, and empty. Stop clinging to what’s worthless, and grab hold of the God who is worthy—with both hands and all your heart.


Don’t give up grace.
Grace never gives up on you.