Riches of God's Grace (3/4)

RICHES OF GOD’S GRACE (Part 3 of 4)
James 1:17, Ephesians 1:3-8

James 1:17-18b: "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth...that we might be a kind of first fruits of all He created."

Remember the two words that are used to describe a believer’s life? Grace is when believers receive (blessings) which we do not deserve. Mercy is when believers do not get (the justice) we deserve.

The moment you accept Christ into your heart and receive salvation, you are incredibly rich! This amazing treasure comes to us through grace.
Grace is: A) Given by the heavenly Father (James 1:17). B) Given freely (Ephesians 1:6). C) Given abundantly (Ephesians 1:7-8). D) Given immediately. E) Given on Christ’s merit, unearned and underserved by us. F) Given to us forever; nothing can take it away.

Feel rich yet?

There’s more: We were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world. We were predestined to be adopted sons and daughters through Jesus Christ. We were redeemed (bought with Jesus’ blood). Our salvation was costly; the price was Jesus’ death. We are justified before the Father. That means we are no longer guilty of our sin. We are removed from God’s enemy list; He accepts us as children. That is reconciliation. (Romans 5:10).

But that’s not all: We are forgiven. Colossians 2:13 in the Bible says God does not hold our sin against us. But God will discipline us, as needed. (Hebrews 12:6). We are one with the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He abides in us, and we in Him. (John 15:5). We are joint heirs with Christ. (Romans 8:14-17). We have dual citizenship: citizens of Earth, and Heaven. (1Peter 1:3-4). God is working all things together for our good. (Romans 8:28).

Do you feel rich now?

Still with me? At salvation, we are set apart for God’s service. That’s what sanctification means. We are continually cleansed and refined throughout our lives. The indwelling Holy Spirit seals us as children of God. He guides and teaches, equipping us to do God’s will. This enables us to approach the throne of grace with confidence. (Romans 5:5, Ephesians 4:20, Hebrews 4:15-16). We’re promised a physical resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:50-52).

When you feel poor, think of the riches you already own. Don’t ever say that you didn’t realize you were wealthy beyond measure.

Take Home Nugget

These are incomparable riches of God’s grace. How can anyone argue that being called, justified and glorified doesn’t make you feel special? (Romans 8:30, Ephesians 2:4-7).

Living life is more than playing a game.
Before the world, our heritage we trace--
God’s lavish grace upon us in Jesus’ name.
We’re trophies of His grace!

J.D. Griffith

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Grace Displayed Part 2 of 4

GRACE DISPLAYED (Part 2 of 4)
1Timothy 1:12-17, Acts 9:1-6, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 9:1-4

1Timothy 1:13-14

"Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unfelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus."

Remember the two words that are different sides of the same sword, grace and mercy? Grace is when believers receive blessings which we do not deserve. Mercy is when believers do not get the justice we deserve.

Bobby swung the bat that hit the ball through his neighbor’s garage window.
Bobby slinked inside his own house. His Dad asked, “Did you hit that ball, Son?”

Bobby nodded, his head down.

“Well then, I want you to tell the Parkers who broke their window. Go now.” Bobby’s Dad said.

Bobby knocked on the Parker’s back door. Mrs. Parker heard Bobby’s admission. She smiled and told him to come inside. Mr.Parker listened to Bobby’s guilt of having broken the garage window. Bobby went home with a cupcake and a smile on his face.

Grace is transforming the person from the inside out. Grace changes thought. Grace changes habits. Grace is more than abundant where there is mercy for the sinner. 1Timothy 1:12-17 outlines what our lives would be without grace. We’d be dead in our sin. By faith in Christ, we have eternal life. This is certainly undeserved and earned.

The Christian religion is the only religion in the world where we cannot earn favor from the almighty. This is life by grace. Apostle Paul was chief of sinners, his admission. (Acts 9:1-6). Grace broke through the ring leader of persecutors and saved him by grace.

Every believer should be an example of Paul. His life was changed by grace. He went from sinner to saint. No one is an exception to God’s grace. By saying, “I’m too bad, God won’t forgive me” belies God’s power and sovereignty. How rude! We serve an almighty God, a God of impossibilities. If He says he can, He can! Ours is a life in grace. For behold, when we’re in Christ, we become a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:15).

We owe God everything!

Take Home Nugget

Romans 9:1-4 gives us a conscience of gratitude and humility. This grace, unearned and undeserved blesses us abundantly. As we follow Jesus, this humble attitude of gratitude puts us in service to our Lord.

Without knowing how blessed we are
We serve others in humble gratitude.
For Our King Jesus has put us above par
To make eternal goals our attitude.

J.D. Griffith

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Throne of Grace 1/4

THRONE OF GRACE (Part 1 of 4)
Hebrews 4:14, 16

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess...Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

What do these two words mean? Grace: God gives us what we do not deserve. Mercy: God doesn’t give us what we do deserve. Opposite sides of the same sword bless us in different ways.

Both words make our lives hopeful, do-able. Both are gifts that are unearned. Both gifts are undeserved. We depend on both gifts. We depend on God’s grace every minute of every day. Who wakes us up every morning? Grace. Why does God allow us to live after we rebel and sin against Him? Mercy. Romans 6:23 in the Bible says plainly, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.”

1 John 1:9 in the Bible says, ”If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleans us from all unrighteousness.”

Every good thing comes from God, the Father, through the cleansing blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Hebrews 4:14 calls Jesus our high priest. Verse 15 says Christ was tempted as we are, but was sinless. The clincher verse is what makes us cherished children, and is found in verse 16. “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

WOW!

How happy are you to sit on a loved one’s lap and feel precious love? This is soothing, especially after we’re hurt. The loved one is pleased to give you healing after your feelings, or body gets hurt. Our Heavenly Father is the same way.

He gave us the Bible so that we learn about His love for us when we study His Word. He opens His arms welcoming us onto His lap. For comfort, peace, healing.

Take Home Nugget

We know God is sovereign and in control of all things. Will He stoop down to listen to our silly, trivial needs? St. Paul makes it clear that we’re to approach His throne boldly. We’re to approach Him with confidence; sure that we’re not bothering Him or are too insignificant for Him to care. In fact, we’re specifically instructed to “bother Him” with everything that troubles us. (1Peter 5:7).
God’s Riches At Christ's Expense.

J.D. Griffith

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Difficult People

DIFFICULT PEOPLE
Romans 12:18

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

When someone asked John D. Rockefeller, (senator of West Virginia), what is the most valuable skill for employees to possess, he said, “The ability to get along with people.”

We may agree with him. Everyone knows a person who is “difficult”. A person who continually argues, nit picks, and is disagreeable is hard to take—even in small doses. Jesus gave us a command to love one another. But how do we love difficult people?

This important skill is necessary to learn as we walk with Christ. After we learn how to interact with troublemakers, we can pour our energy into different aspects of living. Resolving conflict and putting out personal fires can become second nature to them who follow Jesus. We can follow His model:

1. Matthew 22:18 shows us how to refuse to play games. Jesus realizes He can’t please all people. Make boundaries and stand firm by them. When someone dares you to do that which you know is wrong, walk away. Sometimes no answer speaks louder than using words.

2. We’re to learn how to refuse unrealistic expectations. Playing is fun, but when it conflicts with promises already made, it’s better to decline. It is harder to make amends to someone after breaking a promise than it is to reschedule another time that doesn’t conflict.

3. Matthew 5:38-39 teaches us to “turn the other cheek” when someone hurts us. That means not getting even. We’re not to strike back when someone hurts us.

Give anger a rest by giving the other person some space to calm

down. It takes two people to argue. Walking away ends the debate.

4. It never feels good when someone is angry at us.

Disagreements will happen.

Sometimes the other person refuses to see our point.

Matthew 5:44 offers a solution: prayer.

When we lift our concerns to the Lord in prayer, He will open the eyes of people. Sometimes it is me who needs to learn a lesson, and then I must admit my error.

Take Home Nugget

Romans 12:18 says, "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This seems to be at the heart of the matter.

Striving for peace will offset anger. When friends recognize your ambition is peaceful, they will be eager to work with you.

Some people are easy to click with a bond.
Others take every chance to fight.
Some are folks with whom we are fond,
Others need prayer to do what’s right.

J.D. Griffith

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Whose Battle?

WHOSE BATTLE?
2 Chronicles 20:12-25

"'Oh our God, will You not judge them! For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.'" V. 15: "He [Jahaziel] said, "Listen King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be dismayed because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.'"

For some people, when the going gets tough, they roll up their sleeves and get busy. Some whine, “Not fair!” Still others have no clue how to proceed.

God has a plan for victory when troubles seem impossible for us to resolve. Check out King Jehoshaphat’s story in 2 Chronicles chapter 20, in the Bible. He was leading Israel in battle. Their foes were three kingdoms—at one time!

Yikes!

The men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir marched towards Israel, preparing an invasion. King Jehoshaphat had no way to fight against this great assembly of warriors.

The people fasted and prayed. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Jehoshaphat’s advisors. “Be not afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

Can you imagine Jehoshaphat’s relief?

I urge you to study 2 Chronicles chapter twenty to see how God won the battle for His children. Israel’s enemies killed each other! Now that’s one cool resolution to trouble!

God will do the same for His children today. He’s much better at fighting battles and solving problems than we’ll ever be! We get tired, fatigued and discouraged because we forget to trust God to work out our problems.

We think, it all depends on me. Today, make this your plan: resign from being the manager of the universe.

Let it go; the world will not fall apart if you take a breath of fresh air. As we relax in faith and trust in the person who IS the manager of the universe, we’ll see He runs it well without our “help”.

The message to Jehoshaphat is to “take your position and stand firm.”

We’re not to be discouraged or afraid. A mental attitude of quiet confidence will allow us to stand firm during trouble.

It is never God’s will that we run away from a difficult situation. If we avoid it once, He’ll bring it around again to give us another chance to get it right. God wants us to learn from experience that He is sufficient to lead us through every trouble.

Take Home Nugget

How do we stand firm during trouble? When we’re afraid, we can gather strength by believing: A) God’s character is faithful. He may take us out on a limb, but He won’t let us fall. And

B) God’s Word is faithful. We can count on the promises found in the Bible.

What are you afraid of today that you can trust God to handle?

People swarm around me,
Each wanting something more.
My eyes glued on Jesus see
Victory’s gate with treasures galore.

Dedicated to all the father’s who do battle for their children by J.D. Griffith
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

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Little Faith + Big God = Awesome Results

LITTLE FAITH+BIG GOD=AWESOME RESULTS
Matthew 17:20, Mark 9:22-24

Maatthew 17:20: "He [Jesus] replied, 'Because you have so little faith, I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'"

Everybody has faith. The difference is what we put our faith in.

“This is where you must go on faith.” A boy’s mother told him as he stood on home plate, nervous for his first at bat. Corbin gritted his teeth and practiced his swing

one more time. I have faith that I can hit the ball, but will God allow me

to get a hit? Corbin thought. He looked towards the pitcher who threw the

ball that began Corbin’s little league career. He will never forget the moment

he swung that bat and hit the ball. CRACK!

The ball flew over second base as Corbin raced to first.

It is possible to be filled with faith and doubt at the same time. We often have faith that God wants us to do something and still be scared to death. Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is proceeding to do something in spite of fear. We begin with the faith that we have. Forget holding a rabbit’s foot for luck. In order for faith to work, it must be placed in the Sovereign Lord God, creator of Heaven and Earth. Even when our faith is little, it’s a great place to start.

Jesus says we can ask Him for more faith. The father who wanted Jesus to heal his son said, “Lord I do believe. Help me to overcome my disbelief.” The man’s faith grew on the spot and Jesus healed his son.

No matter how weak or how frail we think our faith is, it’s enough. It’s enough to get us through what we’re facing. It’s enough to complete the vision God planted in our hearts.

Some people say they don’t want to worship God at church or make a commitment to Christ until they understand what faith is all about. They haven’t seen this equation: Little faith plus Big God equals awesome results.

We take our little faith and place it into

our big God. He’ll dazzle us with awesome results.

Take Home Nugget

Matthew 17:20 in the Bible says, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed…nothing will be impossible for you.” That’s not a lot of faith. In fact, a mustard seed is one of the smallest of all seeds. Study the rest of that verse; mustard seed faith moves mountains! We don’t need great faith to do great things for God.

I have no problem with small faith, Lord.
I trust You and stand behind Your sword.
Scared, but doing what You command,
Trusting You and make my stand.

J.D. Griffith

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Laughing Matter

LAUGHING MATTER
Proverbs 14:30

"A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."

“The One enthroned in heaven laughs”. Psalm 2:4.

How cool! We have much in common with our Father, don’t we?


Kids don’t have to be taught laughter; it comes easily—sometimes too easily.

Isn’t it great that our Creator wove a laugh gene into us? He loves laughter, and He loves hearing us laugh. The passage in Proverbs 14:30, in the Bible says, “A relaxed attitude lengthens a man’s life”. So when someone tells you to “lighten up”, the advice is intended for you to have a long life.

Humor is a funny thing. It’s an amazing tension reliever. It is an antidote to anxiety. It makes stress dissolve. It’s just like a tranquilizer, but without drugs and annoying side effects. Laughter is free! (Unless someone laughs during quiet time, then it can be painful).

President Abraham Lincoln once said when asked how he handled all the stress of the Civil War, “If it hadn’t been for laughter, I could not have made it.”

Many people who live in dire circumstances use laughter to make fun of their problems. It detracts others into laughing at their problems, too. What a super way to cope with trouble.

Laughing distracts people from self-pity. Laughter shapes a new way to look at situations so that they don’t seem so awful. It’s similar to focusing on Jesus instead of circumstances. A new attitude changes the world.

When you learn to laugh at troubles, you never run out of things to laugh at. Life is chocked full of funny things.

Take Home Nugget

Did you ever see the face of an orangutan?

God’s a funny creator, isn’t He?

This proves our Father has a sense of humor. God is forming us into the likeness of His Son each day. Now that gives us license to laugh.

Can you think of a time when Jesus probably laughed?

Times are rough when nothing is funny.
Stepping aside and looking at life a different way
Can be a smart thing to changing focus
And smiles and laughter force frowns away.

J.D. Griffith

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Successful Failures--Lessons in Proverbs (2 of 2)

SUCCESSFUL FAILURES—LESSONS IN PROVERBS (2 OF 2)
Proverbs 20:30, 28:13, Philippians 3:13-14

Proverbs 20:30: "Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being." 28:13: "He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but he who confesses and renounces them finds mercy."

The last time, we saw several causes of failure. Today, let’s learn how to flip failure into personal success. After failure strikes, (and it will,) here are some steps to begin again. Just like getting back on a horse after falling off, we can pick ourselves up and brush off the dust after realizing failure.

The least we suffer is bruising our pride; the suffering can be much more intense. But, God is in the business of plucking us out of the pit. Will we have the courage to begin anew? Here are ideas on how to start fresh with dignity:

Accept responsibility. Welcome to the human race—everyone makes mistakes.

Adam blamed Eve. Eve blamed the serpent.

God scowled. (Genesis 3:12-19). “A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance.”

Failure has Benefits—Recognize them. Failure brings people down a peg or two— embarrassment teaches lessons. Try, try again. Everything that’s worthwhile, is worth doing well. This often means doing something over and over—until it’s right. Life is people’s school of learning. What an education! It is often the best source of creativity.

Reflection. If everything were easy, we wouldn’t appreciate many blessings. Failure is one way that God uses for us to reflect on the direction our lives are heading. It’s up to us to evaluate and re-evaluate what’s important. “Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways.”

Understanding. Wisdom comes with understanding. Understanding why we failed is the first avenue to avoiding repeating that mistake. If you don’t get it, ask God to show you how to not repeat the mistake—avoiding more failure.

Forget and let go. With eyes on the future, the past is behind us. No one can change the past, so moving forward is a productive way to end self rebuke. Wallowing in self pity never changed a thing.

Brothers and sisters, I cannot consider myself a winner yet. This is what I do: By never looking back, my stride forward gets longer. “I run straight toward the goal to win the prize that God’s heavenly call offers in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14).

Take Home Nugget
All we can do is abide in Christ and study the Bible for learning His way. But things do go wrong, despite our best efforts. Our future is still side open for success.

Sometimes our plan does not unfold
The way we thought it would;
But God is always in control
To use it for our good. Sper

J.D. Griffith

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