I was blessed with a wonderful discussion last night about grace. It was broad in the scope, passionate in delivery, and insightful. This blessing came from a small group bible study Pam and I attend. Thank you my brothers and sisters in Christ. Are blessed in a similar manner?
Grace is an interesting topic. It can be foreign to some, and difficult to grasp. While the grace of God is always there for us, we tend to forget how to show that grace to others. How we act, what we talk about, with whom we speak, how we share or not share, and even our body language can send a BIG message about how grace resides in our own lives. It can either be flashing like one of the LED billboards we see on the roadsides. Or it can be hidden from view, and reserved for those we think are worthy of our grace. The Apostle Paul makes a comment for us to take to heart. He states "whether I am in chains or defending or confirming the gospel, all of you share in the God's grace with me." The message I see there is two fold. First we always have that grace regardless of where we are or what we are doing. And secondly we share in God's grace always. Not just on Sundays during worship services or during a bible study. It is always there for us, and we must share that same grace with others. We do so at all times, in all places, with all peoples. This can be difficult, I know. We can encounter people in our lives where "extra grace is required'. For whatever reason, they are difficult. It is up to us to reach out to them and share that same grace given freely to us. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—". If we are to honor that gift sharing grace is an imperative. Let us resolve to keep that thought today, tomorrow, and every day.
PRAYER: Father, ABBA, Your grace is sufficient for all. Your Son suffered the humiliation of the cross for us poor sinners. His blood saves us and it was offered freely, by grace. Help us O God to share that same grace in our own lives with others. Guide us in our ministry efforts. Show us those who are struggling and let our words, by your words of grace. Let each of us be a testament to how Your grace saves all. We ask this in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with the Father, and the Spirit. One God, now and forever. Amen
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