I finally gave in and started a blog. The fact that I am about to move to South Asia for 2 years seemed like a good reason to start one. I hope to use this to share what I am learning and what the Lord is doing in South Asia.
Right now He is teaching me a whole lot about grace....unmerited favor.
"But by the grace of God I am what I am..." 1 Corinthians 15:10
Unmerited. I absolutely without a shadow of a doubt do not deserve what Christ has given me. This is the part that is easy for me to understand and grasp. Satan is really good at reminding me of that every minute of every day. I do not deserve Christ, His love, or His righteousness.
Favor. Something done or granted out of goodwill, rather than from justice or for remuneration; a kind act. He chooses to offer it. There is absolutely NOTHING about grace that depends on me. My obedience, or disobedience, does not change the grace freely offered to me through Jesus Christ. How wonderful is that?! "From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another." -John 1:16
"For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace." -Romans 6:14
Do I actually live and think this way? Does my every word and action flow out of a life that recognizes that it is only by grace that I am who I am? No. My resolve: to quit trying...and actually take Him at His word. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. -2 Corinthians 12:9
