"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Timothy 2:1-3).

The presence of God's grace does not eliminate the necessity of faithful endurance in the Christian's life. Many believe the impossibility of apostasy doctrine, resting their case (in part) upon the magnitude of divine grace and God's ability to save. We would never deny God's ability to save and the greatness of His grace. Without God's grace, we are lost (Eph. 2:4-5). At the same time, grace without faith will not save the lost (Eph. 2:8-9; Heb. 5:8-9). Thus, Paul urges Timothy to be strong in grace by fulfilling his service as a good minister of Christ. He was to be teaching the gospel and enduring hardship as a soldier of Christ.

Please do not expect grace to be poured down on you from heaven like water out of a pitcher. Grace is strong where faith abounds. And, faith only abounds unto salvation when it is at work doing the will of God (James 2:17-24). Therefore, be strong in the grace of Christ. Be a good soldier and live by faith, doing the work that the word of His gospel sets before you.