Summer of Grace
The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
Psalm 145:8
What an amazing God we serve. He is gracious to us, full of goodness and generosity, fulfilling His promises, even though we are unworthy of any favor. He is merciful to us, even though we are guilty, deserving of His wrath and judgment. He is slow to anger and greatly patient with us, even when we are rebellious and unrepentant. All of this because His love for us is steadfast.
But why? Why would God look upon us, a sinful, rebellious and unworthy people, and give us grace, mercy and forgiveness? Because Jesus took our sin and rebellion, nailing it to the cross and gave us His worth, obedience and righteousness.
How are you moved by this kind of love? How does God’s grace change you and your relationships with other? Being found in Jesus, being conformed to His image, our relationships and grace towards others should mirror God’s grace towards us.
So, does that mean we should seek the best interest of others even when they are jerks to us and incredibly cold and hurtful to us? Yes, yes it does.
Does it mean we should forgive others when they hurt us deeply, over and over? Yes, yes it does.
Does it mean we should show restraint and patience and not explode our anger on someone who deserves it? Yes, yes it does.
I pray you take time this summer to reflect on and pray about your relationships with others.
Are your relationships with others transformed by the grace that transforms you?
Scott Hambrick
Scott Hambrick is a community group coach and leads at the Tri-Village Congregation. He is married to Heather and has three children: Levi, Josiah, and Moriah. Scott has a B.Ed from Anderson University and an M.Ed from George Mason University.
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