Grace Of God

June 7th – 2 Corinthians 2:10-11

2 Corinthians 2:10-11

Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven, if there was anything to forgive, I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”

The devil has many tricks in his bag of deception, and unforgiveness is one of them. Constantly he reminds us of the many ways a person has wronged us. And how they should be made to feel guilt and shame. But by casting aside the lies of the enemy and choosing to forgive, we prevent bitterness from taking hold and festering in our spirits. Bitterness only builds a wall between our hearts and God, and gives Satan a foothold in our lives.  And worst of all, it can cause us to exhibit behavior that might lead others away from God. In Hebrews 12:15 we are told, “See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it may be defiled.” As followers of Jesus we are to show the grace of God to all we meet. We are His ambassadors in the world. And our lives should be a testimony of the love, grace, and forgiveness of Jesus. One that it is a light to those who would receive it and a condemnation to those who would reject it.

June 7th – 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 Read More »

May 9th – 2 Corinthians 5:17

2 Corinthians 5:17

In most mystery shows when the main witness testifies against the “big fish”, they enter the witness protection program. There they start a new life, in a new town with a new name. As Christians when we receive Jesus as our Savior, we enter God’s witness protection program. For we undergo a spiritual transformation making us a new person, with a new identity, and a new purpose in life. Gone is our old self and old identity with all of its sin and brokenness. And in its place, through the grace of God, is a glorious new self, empowered by the Holy Spirit. And as this new self, we are called to live a life that reflects our new identity in Christ. This includes growing in knowledge and love of God, pursuing holiness and righteousness, serving others, and witnessing to the world of God’s saving grace.

May 9th – 2 Corinthians 5:17 Read More »

August 9th – Hebrews 12:15

Hebrews 12:15

As followers of Jesus we are to show the grace of God to all we meet. For we are His representatives here in the world. And as Paul tells us, “a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” (2 Cor. 2:15) Meaning our lives should be such wonderful testimonies of the love and grace of Jesus, they are lights to those who receive Him, and a condemnation to those who reject Him. But we can’t be those glorious reflections if our roots are tangled in bitterness, anger, and strife. Because such things only lead to trouble in our life and the lives of others. Instead we need to be deeply rooted in God and nourished by His grace. Only then will we be able to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, and forgiving; just as God in Christ forgave us.

 

August 9th – Hebrews 12:15 Read More »

July 11th – Philippians 2:3

Philippians 2:3

God doesn’t want us to just be good, He wants us to be great. Being great is twofold. Because to be great is to serve God, and serving God means serving others. Each day we are called to make ourselves available to Jesus. Ready and willing to be used in His service. And whatever it is He asks of us, we are to do with love, humility, and joy. Not with an attitude of resentment, or with the “woe is me” spirit of a martyr. And especially not for our own ego, or for our star to shine. All things should be done for the glory of God alone. As believers we are given at least one spiritual gift and are commanded to, “employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”, (1 Pet. 4:10). When our hearts and minds are focused on pleasing the Lord and helping others, we can find a deep fulfilling joy. One that comes with being a humble servant of the Almighty God.

July 11th – Philippians 2:3 Read More »