We Don't Get Grace
Grace is a foreign concept to us because the world doesn’t operate based on grace. It trends towards criticism and judgment. Grace says, “I forgive you...I accept you as you are...I value you.”

The word grace is a short, simple word. But understanding the biblical depth and meaning of grace can take a lifetime of study and application. It's almost a shame that a word describing suppleness of movement or a short, quick prayer before a meal is the same word we use to describe God's unfathomable love for sinners. Nevertheless, it is grace that moves Him to offer us the free gift of salvation and forgiveness.
Grace is what compelled the Apostle Paul to write of a mystery never understood before (1 Corinthians 2:7-13). Grace is also what allows us to relax into another's accepting embrace as he or she gives us the freedom to discover our unique journey laid out by God. So relax as we journey together down the path toward freedom and the wonderment of the surpassing riches of God's grace!
Grace is a foreign concept to us because the world doesn’t operate based on grace. It trends towards criticism and judgment. Grace says, “I forgive you...I accept you as you are...I value you.”
Have you ever seen a dog reach the end of his leash? Once he does he comes straight to a halt. We all reach the end of our own figurative leashes with each other and with God at one point or another. The good news is God will always forgive us and always extend His grace to us, no matter what. We just need to accept it. Now shouldn’t we do the same with others?
The reality is that it is not an either/or issue of trusting God to act or us acting alone. It is a both/and issue of trusting fully and acting wisely according to God’s revealed will in Scripture.
I find it easy to have incredible grace for others when I understand their motives behind questionable actions. When I think I understand the whole story I can excuse poor behaviour, forgive debts, and look the other way.
How often do you give the gift of love to others? If it’s in words then use the word “I” and include the word “love” and end with the word “you.” Real love is resilient. It never gives up. It stands firm.
Bad memories usually revolve around two kinds of experiences: those involving a traumatic or painful incident, and those involving people who have hurt us in some way. Is there a way to forget painful memories?
Pastor Chuck Swindoll draws from the account of the Israelites’ Exodus from slavery in Egypt. Supernatural guidance, deliverance, and provision could not even soften their hearts.
Instead of enjoying God’s ocean of grace, many Christians are still trapped—not by sin but legalism. Legalism with its layers of restrictions cuts them off from freedom and smothers them with shame.
The bold proclamation of God's Word has been replaced with shallow substitutes designed to entertain rather than convict. It's time to “restore the years” that the locusts have eaten.
Can you minister grace to people who don’t inspire you to acts of kindness? Let me suggest a good beginning. Stoop down and embrace them. Love that reaches up is adoration. Love that reaches out is compassion. But love that stoops is grace.