Unlimited – June 5, 2015

Proverbs 3:33-35    The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, But He blesses the dwelling of the righteous. Though He scoffs at the scoffers, Yet He gives grace to the afflicted. The wise will inherit honor, But fools display dishonor.

James 4:6    But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble."

1 Peter 5:5     In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble."

Proverbs 14:9     Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.

Do not make the mistake of limiting grace to Christ. We can learn to be just as gracious. Because it is a provision for us, we must use it, not only in our words and in our actions. When we do we get to reap benefits such as:

First, we gain a greater appreciation for God's gifts to you and others. What gifts? Several gifts come to mind. The free gift of salvation. The gift of life. The gift of laughter, of music, of beauty, of friendship, of forgiveness. Those who claim the freedom God offers gain an appreciation for the gifts that come with life.

Second, you learn to stop judging;  you can expect to spend less time and energy critical of the choices of others. Who knew that minding your own business was a Biblical principle? Please note I didn’t say ignore wrong or let a friend crash and burn….I said STOP JUDGING!  Wouldn't that be a refreshing relief? When you get a grasp on grace—when you begin to operate in a context of freedom—you become increasingly less petty. You will allow others room to make their own decisions in life, even though you may choose otherwise.

Third, you can expect to become more tolerant. You won’t be so fascinated by the externals; they will hold the appeal they once possessed. You'll begin to develop a desire for authentic faith rather than participate in rites and rituals. You will find yourself so involved in your own pursuit of grace, you'll no longer lay guilt or chastise those with whom you disagree.

Fourth, you can expect to take a giant step toward maturity. As your world expands, thanks to an awakening of your understanding of grace, your maturity will enlarge. Before your very eyes, new vistas will open. It will be so transforming, you will never be the same.