Hebrews 13:9 says that it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace…in other words, grace is food for the heart. We eat food every day because it is necessary for the overall growth and health of our bodies. 2 Peter 3:18 instructs us to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The more we know of the Lord and begin to understand the depths of the riches of His grace, the more spiritual fruit we produce…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Grace creates an environment in the heart where growth can occur, and as we grow in our knowledge of the Lord and experience His grace, we should be extending it to those around us. Every time we extend grace to someone , we are pointing them to the cross.
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us.” (Ephesians 1:7-8, NASB)
How different the world would be if we lavished grace on others, the way He has lavished grace on us.
This was so encouraging! I like how you pointed out how the more we know our Jesus, the more we are able to give His grace to others. from FMF.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Natalie! It is a beautiful cycle of grace to growth to grace, isn't it? I am so thankful for His abundant grace! :)
DeleteGreat post. I also wonder how different the world would be if we would lavish grace upon ourselves? We who are good at giving God's grace to others sure don't give ourselves any.
ReplyDeleteYou bring up a good point, Shannon. I was just talking with some ladies last night at church about this very thing...how difficult it is to receive grace for ourselves. I think this is something that so many struggle with. Yes, the world (as well as our own personal walk with the Lord) would be different if we could find a way to easily receive what is lavished on us by our Father.
ReplyDeleteThank you .. So beautiful .. grace food for the heart!
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by, John!
DeleteI like how you point out that we grow in grace...and we need that spiritual food to be strengthened to grow! Thanks for stopping by my post and for sharing your heart here!
ReplyDeleteI had never really thought about "growing in grace" before and what that means. We usually hear about growing in the knowledge of the Lord, but today's word gave me food for thought. How powerful the body of Christ would be if we were all growing in grace, and extending it to those around us! Thanks for stopping by!
Delete"How different the world would be if we lavished grace on others, the way He has lavished grace on us." I think of that all the time. Especially since my default isn't usually grace but judgement, for myself and for others. But that sinking into and pouring out God's grace? That's where hearts change.
ReplyDeleteIt was so good to meet you at Allume. I sat next to you at one of the meals and we talked about Oregon and your husband's beautiful music. So cool to see you here in the link up and know you in real life!
Blessings to you!
Thanks for taking a peek into my nest, Alia! I remember you and enjoyed our conversation! I agree...the challenge for me is learning how to sink into God's grace, especially for myself. The feeling of grace in your heart is so freeing and produces such thankfulness. I am so thankful for His grace! I will be praying for safety and blessings beyond measure on your upcoming trip!
DeleteHow different it would be indeed...may we be conduits of grace in His name, is my prayer. So thankful for our flight together and seeing you at Allume...xo
ReplyDeleteConduits of grace...yes!! I was delighted to share a flight with you, and enjoyed our conversation! I appreciate your sweet spirit and friendship. Your post on today's word touched my heart. ((hugs))
Delete"Grace is food for the heart." I love that!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Debbie! Looking at that verse with my mind focused on grace, it just seemed to make sense. Grace satisfies and strengthens! :o)
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