The workings of grace...

In previous posts I have share that the Lord has been and is working on my heart to have more grace towards others.

His challenge continues.

I have prayed that the Lord would help me, through His own grace on me, to see others as He does. To love them as He does and to have compassion on them. Sometimes in a fallen world, this is hard. Especially when I am verbally assaulted in a situation when my conscience is clear. The flesh in me so much wants to match words for words, but thankfully through the Holy Spirit I was able to show restraint, yet also defend myself and let it be known that I will not tolerate anyone treating me in such a manner and with such utter disrespect.

Needing comfort and direction, I turned to God's word for encouragement in dealing with the particular situation.

Romans 6:14 For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.

It was good to read this verse. It was encouraging to know that the Lord will continue to sanctify me in this area. Since I was born a sinner, my first inclination will always be to act or react in sin. But as the Lord continues to sanctify me, I do believe that I am strengthened more and more in the Holy Spirit - therefore, the fruits of the spirit will be more evident in my actions. But God's grace makes this all possible - and because of that sin will not be the master over my life.

2 Corinthians 1:12 [ Paul's Change of Plans ] Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God. We have done so not according to worldly wisdom but according to God's grace.

This is my challenge from the Lord, that my conscience may be free in my dealings and interactions with others. That I represent myself, my words, my deeds and my thoughts in a way that glorifies God, and represents Christ to others.

Some may think that I'm going overboard, thinking way too much into this or setting myself up to be a doormat - but having grace towards others is important to me because before the beginning of time God chose me, set me apart, and lavished His wonderful grace on me. ON ME!? of all people! If such love, kindness and mercy has been shown on me - a worm, how can I not extend the same to those around me? Would I not be a hypocrite to receive such a blessing, yet not give such a blessing to others? Often times others have no clue - as I really have to remind myself to be gracious when I'm in traffic!!

But too, I am seeing many benefits in this pursuit. I am becoming more patient. I get less stressed over things, less work-up and too, I am learning a bit more of God's love for me.

Now, to explain the picture. I'm determined to have a picture with each post and who honestly can't feel better when they read the Word and see a cute girl with kool-aid mustache!??! This is my youngest niece Lauren, and this picture makes me smile. It sure makes me feel better.