Finding Grace
In my newsletter this week I would like to ask if you consider yourself a humble person. Are you able to extend grace to those who have disappointed or hurt you? Are you able to let the offense go and not harbor ill feelings towards that person(s)? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone. Many people battle with this sin. I would like to share a story that helped me conquer this giant. In my younger years, I will admit that I was a person who hung onto things when people hurt or disappointed me. I went as far as distancing myself and allowing division to jeopardize special relationships. However, I had to learn throughout the years to put my pride away and stop trying to be like the world. In my heart, I wanted much more for myself. But I knew it required me to be transparent with Jesus and ask for help. See, I knew I had to replace the old ways and act much differently if I was going to live a righteous life. I have to say the concept was not easy at first, but in time and through Him, my life is much different. As I am continually being refined, my behavior has drastically shifted. Now, I make a conscious effort to try and emulate His character the best I know how. I often asked myself how He would have responded to those who persecuted and hurt him. Without a doubt, He always extended grace no matter the circumstance! How would you say that you respond to conflict? Are you at that point that if you wrong someone- you can admit your mistake? Do you find that it is important to examine your heart regularly? By searching yourself and being open to direction, you will find that your pride decreases and now your heart can allow you to find humility. It is at this moment, that you are able to find it in your heart to extend grace. So will you open your heart today, put away your pride and let God teach you about grace?
And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
James 4:6-10
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions
⦁ Who do you imitate the king of pride-the adversary or the King of grace-Jesus?
⦁ What areas in your life do you need to humble yourself before the Lord?
⦁ Will you search your heart and lay these things at the cross?
⦁ How will you make sure that you extend grace the next time someone wrongs you?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested)- when you look in a mirror, can you say “I See Grace?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMHoKdawIEY&ab_channel=MicahTyler