You are currently browsing the tag archive for the ‘grace’ tag.
Desire. It’s really the driving force in all we do. It’s desire that drives our relationships. It’s desire that keeps us going through the tough times. When we lose desire we lose the will to go on. But desire is a cruel taskmaster. It often drives us down the road most easily traveled rather than the way best for us. It entices us to grab for the things that hurt rather than nurture; that poison us rather than help us. Jesus came to show us desire in its purest, most excellent way.
It’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s about him. It’s not about what I can do or what I have, it’s about him and what he’s done. It’s not about you or what you’ve done or can do. It’s about him. I’m convinced that no one needs to be told they have problems or that they aren’t perfect. Even if they claim they are okay, in reality, they know better. The best way we can share the goodness of The Father isn’t by pointing out others faults, it’s about showing them a better way. One doesn’t need to be a theologian to proclaim Christ to others. In fact, often it’s the less educated in the depths of scripture that are most effective. The average person is best reached by simple facts. “Jesus loves me, this I know.” That’s all I really need to know and that is the basis of joy!
We often don’t see God do great things in our lives because we try to do things in our power, not his. He works best when he has complete control. Our Father is more concerned about our availability than our ability!
We may not see God do great things in our lives because we doubt our ability to accomplish anything significant. It’s about our openness, not our gifted ness.
We may not see God do great things in our lives because the things we strive to accomplish are intended for our glory not his Kingdom. We are called to build his Kingdom not our name.
He can use you best when you are open to his working power in your life.
We’ve never done well with choices. Ever since Adam and Eve chose the fruit over obedience mankind has consistently chosen self-gratification. Ironically, satisfying our physical desires never lasts. The body constantly demands more to fill the emotional side of us. It’s a futile attempt because nothing we can see, taste or touch will satisfy forever. Someone once said that within the soul of every person is a God shaped hole. The only thing that will fill the void is Jesus. But here’s the kicker. You have a choice. Will you continue to try to fill the void with the temporal or will you choose the narrow road and follow Christ? It’s your choice and your decision will determine your level of satisfaction and contentment.
Some never experience the joy of forgiveness because they never admit their sin. Some never experience the joy of forgiveness because they refuse to forgive those who have wronged them. Some never experience the joy of forgiveness because they mistake confession and repentance. The joy of forgiveness comes when we learn to see ourselves solely as God sees us without comparing ourselves to others or blaming our plight on other people or circumstances. I am a hopeless sinner saved by the blood of Jesus and empowered through his resurrection by the Holy Spirit. This is my joy!
