Of all the gifts God has given me, Grace has been the hardest to accept. Because I felt unworthy and Grace is free and undeserved. It doesn't require an apology or a thank-you. It doesn't need to be wrapped or reciprocated. I can't work hard enough to earn Grace; no amount of money can buy it; there will never be a vote deciding who receives it. Grace is the pure, untarnished favor of God formed in the figure of Jesus Christ.
God knew me before I was shaped in my mother's womb. He looked down through the ages and saw a little girl ravaged by abuse. There was no hope for fixing that broken child-no self help books, no support groups, no sanctimonious preachers. No hope except for the love of a Savior carrying out the plan of God for Grace. It's the best gift I've ever been given.
"For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful Grace and His gift of righteousness for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ", Romans 5:17. NLT
Yes, definitely the most precious gift ever given.
ReplyDeleteGod is so great that He gives us His grace because of His love for us, and also shows His grace by giving us strength and guidance, and by taking care of us each day. God, by His grace, gives us strength to handle difficult problems in our lives. Thankful for the transformation in you Peggy; he has made a beautiful thing out of your life! :)
ReplyDeleteBlessings and love,
Denise
I think I understand about finding it hard to accept grace. But oh the freedom that comes in accepting and believing grace is for me. It is marvellous grace isn't it!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the reminder.
Visiting you reminds me of a former pastor's wife who struggled with depression. Our women's group invited her to lead a Bible study about it thinking many would be helped. To our surprise, she delved into Philippians and took the path of joy instead of overcoming all the negativity of our pasts. Hats off to you Peggy, a real over-comer.
ReplyDelete