The title of this blog is "if not for grace." When I created the blog about a year ago, I selected the title because I wanted to stress that God loves us, forgives us and enables us to start over in life. But, although I believe in the grace of God, I didn't even realize how often we see God's grace at work.
In my study of God's word I am continually confronted with examples of grace.
Last night, at our Wednesday night prayer meeting service we studied the ninth chapter of Acts. That's the story of Saul's conversion. Saul was a murderer before being converted yet today, he stands out as one of the most significant men in the history of the church.
Then, there is King David. The scripture describes him as a "man after God's heart" yet, David committed adultery. God's grace is seen in his life.
Then, there is John Mark. He deserted Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. Yet, God uses him to write what many Bible scholars believe was the first gospel written, the gospel according to Mark.
Then, there is Simon Peter. On the night of the betrayal of our Lord, he had denied the Lord. Then, on the day of Pentecost, it's Simon Peter who preaches the first Christian sermon in history.
I could continue but, you get the point.
Are you struggling today to believe that God could use you in his service? Are you focusing on a mistake you made and think that disqualifies you from service? God's word is filled with examples of people who, "if were not for grace" may have never been heard from again. Accept God's grace today.
"Grace, grace, God's grace.
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within.
Grace, grace, God's grace.
Grace that is greater than all our sin."