Sometimes it's hard to get a grip on grace. We sing Amazing Grace, we talk about grace, but do we really absorb what the grace of God means in our lives? I know I struggle with this. I take it for granted and truthfully, sometimes I think I don't realize how much I need it.
Those who have had struggles in life or been saved out of dramatic circumstances sometimes appreciate grace more than those of us who had a relatively simple life. Many of us don't consider our "small" mistakes as the same as major issues we see in the lives of others. But guess what? "Small" or "large" sins, attitudes and hang ups ALL separate us from God. Think of it this way. If you've ever been "on the outs" with someone--and who hasn't?--was it always a "big thing" that divided the relationship? Chances are you can think of at least one situation where a "little issue" is what started the rift. Bottom line...even "small" things can lead to separation.
So whether you've considered yourself and your history as one of "generally good person" or "redeemed major sinner'" the need for grace is still there. In fact, those proud about the good life they have lived may need it even more!
So the next time you sing Amazing Grace, really think about how amazing it is that God offers His salvation to you...that He wants to bridge that relationship gap. Let's all be looking for His gracious gifts of love each day (again, isn't it the little things that often make our day?)
God's
Really
Awesome
Charity to
Everyone!
Who can you show grace to today?
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(I am returning to my short series begun a few weeks ago. For the next few posts, we'll discuss criticism, something we all LOVE, right?)
Does anyone out there like criticism? I know I don't. But I have been slowly coming to realize that criticism can be a gift. There are three things that criticism reminds me of, that I will share in my next three blog posts. Here is the first: Criticism is like a mirror. When we are given a critical comment, it's like having a mirror held up to us so we can see the spinach caught in our teeth. Whether we like it or not, there is often at least a grain of truth in criticism we receive, no matter how it is delivered. But the good news is, when we check the mirror, it usually doesn't mean that our entire face or outfit needs to be re-done (hope not, anyway!) but that it would be a good thing to give attention to that small, but sometimes glaring, distraction.
A mirror also reflects things. When we receive either praise or criticism, we can "bounce" or reflect it up to the Father. In 2 Corinthians 6:8-10 we see that Paul received both "slander and praise." In all things we can direct what we receive up to our Father. He's big enough to take it all! Since a mirror is reflective, it reminds us to be wise and reflect on criticism we receive, rather than respond to it right away. Some of the best advice on criticism is to WAIT to respond to it. Prayerfully consider what has been said, and ask God to help you distill what you need to learn and what you can let go of. Then you will be in a better position to respond in grace.
Criticism also reminds me of a rope and a brick...but those will have to wait for future blog posts. :) In the meantime, if you struggle with how to handle criticism, read through II Corinthians. Pastor Paul had to deal with quite a bit of it, often directly from his Christian brothers and sisters!
Print This
(I am returning to my short series begun a few weeks ago. For the next few posts, we'll discuss criticism, something we all LOVE, right?)
Does anyone out there like criticism? I know I don't. But I have been slowly coming to realize that criticism can be a gift. There are three things that criticism reminds me of, that I will share in my next three blog posts. Here is the first:
Criticism is like a mirror. When e are given a critical comment, it's like having a mirror held up to us so we can see the spinach caught in our teeth. Whether we like it or not, there is often at least a grain of truth in criticism we receive, no matter how it is delivered. But the good news is, when we check the mirror, it usually doesn't mean that our entire face or outfit needs to be re-done (hope not, anyway!) but that it would be a good thing to give attention to that small, but sometimes glaring, distraction.
A mirror also reflects things. When we receive either praise or criticism, we can "bounce" or reflect it up to the Father. In 2 Corinthians 6:8-10 we see that Paul received both "slander and praise." In all things we can direct what we receive up to our Father. He's big enough to take it all!
Since a mirror is reflective, it reminds us to be wise and reflect on criticim we receive, rather than respond to it right away. Some of the best advice on cricisim is to WAIT to respond to it. Prayerfully consider what has been said, and ask God to help you distill what you need to learn and what you can let go of. Then you will be in a better position to respond in grace.
Criticism also reminds me of a rope and a brick...but those will have to wait for future blog posts. :) In the meantime, if you struggle with how to handle criticsm, read through II Corinthians. Pastor Paul had to deal with quite a bit of it, often directly from his Christian brothers and sisters!
Print This
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