♕ Today's Promise: "But He said to me, 'My grace is enough for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' So then I will boast most gladly about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may reside in me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
~ Kathy in Missouri
Dear Brides, who of us doesn’t want to be described as graceful? Our Husband has told us that His grace is sufficient for us. Let’s figure out how to actually tap in to that amazing grace He so freely offers.
I have been surprised and thankful when people tell me that I have handled the situation with my FH (former husband) with grace. I haven’t felt the slightest bit graceful. However, since You have taught me to have a quiet and gentle spirit, at least to the people that are just watching, the changes in me are apparent. Even the people closest to me say the changes are evident, and for that I am truly humbled and grateful. They are the ones that knew me at my worst. I learned a long time ago that standing up for myself, running my mouth or putting someone “in their place” never actually felt as good or empowering as the world would teach us. I wish I had understood that the same rules applied at home.
I am so very thankful that You have taught me to look to You for my help. I am grateful that You assure me that when I bring my big emotions or situations to You, You actually can change me, give me a new perspective and even enable me to keep my big mouth shut. Oh, I cringe when I remember the times I should have done that with my family. I was so foolish. Please pour Your grace into me so that I am overflowing and pouring grace into all the people around me, drawing them to You and the grace, and strength You offer!
When I think of grace, I think of many attributes of my sweet Husband rolled into one word. His grace is the embodiment of forgiveness, love, understanding and kindness. His ability to see me with love in His eyes and overlook my missteps, shortcomings or foolishness encourages me to do the same for the people in my life. His forgiveness is such a miracle it reminds me not to withhold forgiveness for any reason. He is grace and gives grace so freely, how can I do anything but follow His lead?
I remember clearly the times when I shouted at my FH (former husband) or children out of frustration, anger or defensiveness. I believed that if I didn’t stand up for myself, or make someone behave in a certain manner or do a specific thing that no one would look out for me or my best interest. I was so very foolish. Now I understand, that was never mine to do. I easily could have given it all to my HH (Heavenly Husband) to manage and trusted Him with the outcome. Now I understand that He uses every situation for my good.
When my (now grown) daughter lashes out, complains or is short-tempered, I remember how thoroughly He loved me when I was the same and offer the same gentle responses to her. I am grateful for the opportunities to speak softly to her heart, now that I understand that it’s His kindness that draws us to Him. I will continue to speak well of her dad to her when she gives me the opportunity, and I will ask my Love to fill me to overflowing with His grace, love and forgiveness to pour over every soul He places in my path.
Dear Brides, as an older sister, let me assure you that tapping into the grace that is offered by our Husband is for our good. It will protect us from our own foolishness, and fill our hearts in the most comprehensive way. Ask your Husband for an abundance of grace and watch Him fill you to overflowing. It is more than enough.
"But He said to me, 'My grace is enough for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' So then I will boast most gladly about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may reside in me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
I will boast most gladly about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may reside in me. That says it all. Apart from Him, I can do nothing. I don’t even want to do anything apart from Him. On my own, I destroyed my life. He has restored me to Himself and given me everything I need to step out into the unknown. The Lord is more than enough.
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