Grace

The word GRACE has many different definitions and can be used in so many ways in the english language.  It can encompass a physical movement, a beautiful style and charm or even a prayer at meal time.  The definition I'm referring to is the divine action where it's freely given and represents love, mercy and isn't earned.  

The other night during prayer, I asked God what the next topic of the blog post should be about and I distinctly heard the word "grace".  I've sat on the message for several days now.  However, I know for really real that this word is important and needs to be shared to the readers. I've received more than one confirmation of this from God in the past 3 days.  I've had two friends (male friends) talk about giving grace to others and our Sunday church service was all about giving grace to others.  Even the good old reliable Tik ToK shared some posts about grace, too.  So, if social media is confirming it, then it's legit and straight from our Heavenly Father, right?! Regardless of how we receive the word or the directive, I have no doubt that God will reach me and I'm here to be obedient.  I still chuckle when he's shows up in the strangest places.

For me, grace is so much more than just a word or a simple action extended to someone in need.  Sometimes it's the only thing I can give another person.  The majority of the time, when we are called to give it, it's during those difficult times of conflict, strife or plain old being wronged by another person.  We should choose to show love, mercy and compassion instead of anger, bitterness and retaliation.  It's hard boys and girls...to give it freely and without judgement.  In those times, we have to remind ourselves the grace God has given us.

You see, we as Christians have the wonderful gift of carrying Jesus with us at all times.  We feel his presence in all situations and can sense his love and peace living inside of us.  Not everyone is as lucky as we are to have that beautiful bond with the one that encapsulates the words GRACE, LOVE, MERCY.   It's important to keep in mind that we never truly know what another person is going through, what past traumas they've experienced or where they are in their walk in faith.   By extending that special gift to those in need, you may just be the light in an otherwise dark space in the other person's life.  Grace is love.  More importantly, grace is sharing God's love.

I've been given grace more times than I can count.  When I look back on those times, I feel so blessed for the person and the mercy they extended.  I thank God for each of them.  I've been given grace by family members, co-workers, employers, friends and even from people I thought were my enemies.  It's totally changed the way I felt about those who I thought were only out to watch me fail or hurt me.  

Grace changes hearts, ladies and gentlemen.  Grace turns terrible situations into blessed encounters.  Grace heals.  Give grace the only way God intended it to be given; freely, with love, with compassion, with empathy, with mercy, with kindness, with generosity and without any expectation of anything in return.  You won't regret it, and you may just turn a heart toward God.

I love you guys and God loves you more.

Sincerely,

Kelley