Often the title phrase is used in a derogatory comeback to an accuser. However, there is a positive principle involved as well. We cannot effectively pass on to someone else something we have not experienced. Grace in living and relationships can only be shared when we are experiencing it ourselves.
Psalm 100 in the Bible gives us a great pattern to follow in order to experience the grace of our Shepherd. That pattern begins with our actions on behalf of the Lord... make, serve, come. If we are not actively seeking to develop our relationship with God then we will not have the basis of relationships with others. It is when we look for opportunities to serve others that we are able to send grace into their lives.
The Psalm continues with attitude development. We are instructed to humble ourselves before the Lord, realizing just who He is and how dependent we are upon him. This attitude is necessary in our relationships with others as well. We cannot be focused on self and expect to be an encouragement to others.
Finally, the Psalm discusses our approach to the Lord... thanksgiving, praise, blessing. Probably most of us would have to describe our approach to the Lord and to others in terms other than those. We can't uplift the spirits of others if we approach them with negative, demanding ways.
We must become people of grace if we are to share that grace with others. We must build each day on a foundation of right actions and attitudes and approach others as those with whom we can share grace because we have grace.
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