Grace Wins Every Time....

Have you ever had a chance to pay someone back for a wrong and then allow them a pass, by letting it go, allowing them to exit without a scene, or were you bent on proving that you were right and having the last word? I think if you are like me, it has taken many seasons of life to learn to let it go, even when you know you are right. Proverbs 19:11 "A person's wisdom yields patience; it is to one's glory to overlook an offense."

Somewhere along the way we learn, thankfully, that not having the last word as difficult as it may be, is often the best way for lasting friendships, marriages, and relationships with our kids, co-workers and friends. I had a good friend once say, "Ya know, as soon as I learned to say, you're right, I was wrong, I am sorry, marriage got so much easier." Of course he was half joking about how to get a long in marriage, but in reflection I think he was on to something....

My husband and I often reflect on how pleasant it is to live in a place where people answer to a higher power, whether in the states or overseas. It appears the people as a whole are kinder, quieter, compassionate, helpful, courteous on the streets, not honking and yelling, but stopping to letting you pass, holding a door open, going out of their way to help, praying before a meal whether in public or in private. What would the world look like today, if we as Christians modeled this in our homes, in the workplace, and on the roads where we drive?

God's word however takes it even a bit further. It says we are to love our enemies, and to pray for those who persecute us. Matthew 5:44. He not only gave this directive in word, he then modeled it in deed, by dying on the cross, not for anything he had done, but for us, you and me.  He gave us mercy, he allowed us to escape the judgement we all deserve, he took our punishment.

Grace, it really is all about grace. Not my way, but God's amazing grace. Even as Christ prayed his final prayer, knowing he was about to endure extreme suffering he submitted his will to Gods', knowing that the temporary suffering as difficult as it was, would yield lasting fruit. "Not my will, but yours be done." Luke 22:42.

 Lord, help us to reflect you in all we think, say and do. Help us to show your grace even in the face of persecution and hardship. Help us to forgive those who trespass against us, as you have so graciously forgiven us, and let your light shine, that others may see you in us and consider accepting you as their personal Savior, by how we live, in Jesus name I pray.....

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQqZltmA0eM