Thomas a' Kempis said, "Whoever loves much, does much."
With all the stress of packing, unpacking, finding new doctors, registering kids for school, discovering new grocery stores, and busily accomplishing everything on my "to do list"...I found myself a little more "edgy". Two weeks ago my husband even made the comment, "You are really short in your answers with everyone; you haven't showed a lot of grace to anyone lately."
His words penetrated my heart and grabbed my attention. Here I am, starting an international ministry, "His Love Extended", and I wasn't even extending love or grace to those closest to me, my family....UGHHHH! His words woke me up, calling me to action.
It's so easy to get distracted by our own concerns that we forget why we are really here. As Christians, we have been given an amazing opportunity. God breathed life into us. He extended His love, mercy, and grace and commanded us to go into all the world and share the good news!
There is no greater news or joy to share, than the message of God's grace. There is no greater privilege than representing God to others by extending forgiveness to those who don't deserve it or loving someone who doesn't expect it. When we extend mercy, grace, love, or forgiveness, we cooperate with God, becoming partners with Him in the great exchange of life.
Today's message is short and simple:
"...do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness , rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:30-32, NIV)
"Dear friends, let us love one another..." (1 John 4:7, NIV)
Today, don't let the cares of life crush your joy; let your love for God be witnessed in your love for others; we are his hands and feet...each one of us are HIS LOVE EXTENDED! Be an extension of His grace through your words, through your actions, through your life.
PRAYER: Father, soften our hearts. Help us to extend Your love and reflect Your glory. Season our words with grace and mercy. Help us to be slow to speak, slow to become angry, quick to listen, and abounding in Your love. In Jesus name, amen.
Great blog! I really like how you close each one with prayer.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to invite all your readers to come by and visit my ministry page at One Man Revival, http://onemanrevival.blogspot.com
Frank
Frank, thanks for visiting. I visited yours too. Praying that God provides for your every need! Hope your daughters first day of school went awesome! Many blessings.
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