( Lyrics from Reckless Love by Cory Asbury)
Dear Lord, So far I’ve done all right. I haven’t gossiped, haven’t lost my temper, haven’t been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish, or overindulgent. I’m really glad about that. But in a few minutes, God, I’m going to get out of bed. And from then on, I’m going to need a lot more help.”
Man! Who else can relate to that prayer… or is it just me? Haha .. I saw that prayer in a devotional once and thought, oh man, I definitely have those days…like every day.
People often ask me how I “do it”. How do I have so much patience?? How do I stay so motivated? And how do I have so much energy? I could tell you I try to eat healthy, stay active and get enough sleep, but the real answer is… His Grace!
Sometimes it’s hard for me to really wrap my mind around how often I am undeserving of His grace, yet it’s always there. I’ll admit that I fall short daily, as I’m sure we all do, so resting in the assurance that nothing can change his love for me, for us, is beautiful.
Your deeds don’t save you and your deeds don’t keep you saved. Grace does.
Since I have been a mother, understanding the meaning of grace is so much clearer. I find that kids often believe they need to perform or earn our praise, attention, and love but the truth is, no matter what they do or don’t do, I will love them till my last breath. It is so important to show our kids that our love is there no matter how they act and even when they fail. Just as Gods grace and love are there for us.
When I lose my patience with my children, Gods grace is there. When I act out in anger towards my husband, Gods grace is there. It is such a gift!!
We need to give grace to our children in this same way. By teaching, and most importantly leading by example, we as parents should train them to in turn give grace to others!
This week try to think of ways you can model for your children the grace and love of Jesus.
Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) –For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God– not by works, so that no one can boast.
XOXO ~D~
