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. (2 Corinthians 9:8)

I love to go shopping for clothes, but

slacks are my least favorite item to buy. You see, with my full hips and thighs, I usually have difficulty finding slacks that will give me both a decent fit and be comfortable all at the same time. Recently, I found a pair of slacks that I really liked, however I was unable to try them on because there was no fitting room available. I decided to take a chance in purchasing them anyway. Before putting them on at home, I had already resigned myself to returning them because I was sure that they would not give me the good fit and the comfort that I desired. To my surprise, the slacks fit quite well, and it was only when I looked at the label that I understood why. Six percent of the fabric was made from spandex, a fabric that moves and breathes with one’s body, and provides a relaxed fit.

God’s grace is like those spandex slacks. I think of it as “Spandex Grace.” At this writing, I am undergoing very aggressive therapy for a recent total knee replacement surgery. There are two particular therapy treatments that I am required to do and I often refer to them as the “Torture Chambers.” When I was first introduced to the “Torture Chambers,” I was required to endure them for 5 minutes. At that time, 5 minutes seemed like a lifetime because of the intense pain they caused. Initially, I “kicked and screamed” as one about to be put to the slaughter. Because I continued to struggle with 5 minutes of this torture, my heart nearly failed me when the therapist informed me that my time would be increased throughout the next several weeks. However, I am now capable of enduring 15 minutes of this same torture. Why? How? Well, it’s God’s incredible “spandex grace,” grace that is capable of expanding to perfectly fit the very size and intensity of my specific need for a given time period, however long or short. Although God’s “spandex grace” will never eliminate the pain and discomfort of the torture chambers, it is teaching me very great patience and endurance and to do what I have to do without whining or complaining. At times, I have even asked the therapist to increase the amount of weight on my knee so that I can hasten the recovery process. Not only am I able to survive those “Torture Chambers,” but also I am able to endure them with a quiet heart. God’s grace really is sufficient! And, we can count on Him to always be the head cheerleader in that great cloud of witnesses who so wonderfully encompasses us as we run the race of life!

Now I know that whenever I look at the “label of life,” I will always find that the content of its fiber will most assuredly state: “100% Spandex Grace—One size Fits All.” I also know that I can endure whatever trial or disappointment life brings because “spandex grace” will be there to accommodate me at every turn. I am learning that I will never again have to doubt the power of God’s wonderful gift of grace because He gives us grace that is tailored for every single trial. There is absolutely no suffering that can out-do God’s unique “Spandex Grace!”

Wow, “Spandex Grace!” It really is amazing! What would we ever do without it?

Prayer: Lord, how grateful I am that you never listen to me when I cry out, "That’s enough!" You have the plan and You are the only one who knows how to perfect that plan to Your glory. I thank You for showing me your continuous High Definition work in my life. It really is true that "Father knows best!" Praise the name of Jesus. Amen.

Encouragement Tip: The next time you take out those old photos and long for how you once were, remember to reflect on your spiritual snapshots and the many ways God has been perfecting you. Then decide which one has the greater importance. Think to yourself: "Although I may not yet be all that I should be in Christ, I thank God that I am not what I once was since He began whirling me around."