God’s Favor

July 13th – Galatians 5:1

Galatians 5:1

Jesus’ sacrifice not only provides salvation, but also frees us. It frees us from the bondage of legalism and the relentless pursuit of trying to earn God’s favor through our own efforts. Living in the freedom of His grace means embracing the truth that our worth and salvation aren’t based on our works. Instead they’re based on Christ’s completed work on the cross. This freedom allows us to experience a deep, abiding joy and peace. Because we know that we are fully accepted and loved by God. It liberates us from the guilt and fear that comes with legalistic striving and empowers us to live authentically and boldly in our faith. Grace transforms our motivation for obedience, shifting it from a place of obligation to one of love and gratitude. As we stand firm in this freedom, we resist the pressures to revert to old ways of legalistic thinking. And instead embrace the abundant life Jesus offers. In doing so, we reflect the true essence of the Gospel and inspire others to seek and experience the liberating power of Christ’s grace.

July 13th – Galatians 5:1 Read More »

December 28th – Romans 6:14

Romans 6:14

As the year draws to a close, looking back I can see the countless times I saw God’s hand at work in my life. And the many moments I experienced His wonderful favor. An unmerited, amazing grace, that sustained, comforted, and guided me. God’s grace is a beautiful expression of His awesome love that redeems and frees us. It’s a gift that transforms our lives. One that breaks the chains of sin and ushers in the freedom found only in Jesus. I love what Pastor Max Lucado says. “Grace is simply another word for God’s tumbling, rumbling reservoir of strength and protection. It comes at us not occasionally or miserly but constantly and aggressively, wave upon wave. We’ve barely regained our balance from one breaker, and then, before we can catch our breath, here comes another.” As we embrace the closing chapter of the year, may the grace we have received be a source of inspiration for extending the same grace to others. Entering this new year and new season with a spirit of compassion, forgiveness, understanding and love.

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October 5th – Deuteronomy 8:7-10

Deuteronomy 8:7-10

The words of Moses to the Israelites, offer timeless wisdom that we can apply to our lives today. They serve as a reminder to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and humility in the midst of abundance. Just as God’s people were to remember that their prosperity came from Him alone, we too should acknowledge that everything good in our lives comes from the gracious hand of our Creator. That’s why we are encouraged to be mindful of the source of our abundance. And to never take God’s provision for granted. For He doesn’t just meet our physical needs, but also lavishes us with His goodness and favor. These verses call us to recognize that God’s abundance is not a result of our own efforts but a gracious gift from a loving Creator. One who delights in blessing His children. And in a world that glorifies materialism and focus on oneself, God calls us to use the blessings He gives to honor Him and bless others as abundantly as He blesses us.

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June 30th – Psalm 5:12

Psalm 5:12

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I wish I could put a protective barricade around those that I love, shielding them from the evils of this world. As Christians we have such a shield; the favor of God. And not a flimsy, fallible one that exposes our areas of vulnerability. We have a “tsin’nāh.” A massive, standing shield that protects us on every side from the arrows of the Enemy. The battles will be many this side of heaven. Yet because of His great love, God will never make us fight those battles on our own. He surrounds us with His glory and might. And that which the Lord favors, no one can tear down. There is no safer place to be than sheltered under God. For He promises that those who find refuge in Him will not only find protection, but will be glad and ever sing for joy!

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