Good morning everyone. As we shake off work for the glow of Labor Day and that last summer chance to spend time with family and friends in a relaxed backyard setting, please join me in praising God for His mercy and grace but most of all grace. Let’s press in and focus on Him for a bit.
Today’s Prayer
Father, I come before You on behalf of my brothers and sisters in Christ on this day to say thank You for Your wonderful promises! Though in this world, we face troubles, you have told us to take heart because You have overcome the world! (John 16:33 ). I am so relieved and thankful that through You, we are over comers. So, Lord, when we are overwhelmed or discouraged or faced by great challenges or tempted, please remind us that we can overcome when we rely on You. Remind us to “take it to the Lord in prayer” and allow You to carry us through. We also pray for wisdom and for that way out when temptation comes our way. Thank you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Let’s eat.
Grace
“Peace be with you!” – John 20:19
How would you respond to a group of fellow workers if you were their leader and you poured your life into them, teaching them all you know for three years, only to have them disband and go their own way when troubles came? What would you say to them after you were reunited for the first time? Perhaps you might yell at them. Maybe you might mention each one’s offense. At the least, you might shame them for their lack of faithfulness and courage.
After Jesus was crucified and raised from the dead, He appeared to the disciples. His first words to them were, “Peace be with you!” The word grace means “unmerited favor.” When someone loves you unconditionally, without regard to your behavior in return, it becomes a powerful force in your life. That was the case for the disciples when Jesus appeared to them. They could have expected reprimand. Instead, they received unconditional love and acceptance. He was overjoyed to see them. They were equally overjoyed to see Him.
Jesus understood that the disciples needed to fail Him as part of their training. It would be this failure that became their greatest motivation for service. Failure allowed them to experience incredible grace for the very first time. Grace would transform them as human beings.
Have you experienced this grace in your life? Have you extended grace to those who have hurt you? Can you let go of any wrongs that have come through friends or associates? The grace you extend may change their lives-and yours.
Quote of the Day
If we do anything to further the kingdom of God, we may expect to find what Christ found on that road – abuse, indifference, injustice, misunderstanding, trouble of some kind. Take it. Why not? To that you were called. In Latin America someone who feels sorry for himself is said to look like a donkey in a downpour. If we think of the glorious fact that we are on the same path with Jesus, we might see a rainbow.
Elisabeth Elliot
WITH HOPE AND FAITH
REV. ELDER G E STERRETT
FOUNDER
GCKRS HELPING HAND FOUNDATION – THE RELATIONSHIP FACTORY
http://gckrs.com