“The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.”
I received this quote in a chain e-mail, and through the last few weeks it has really been at the forefront of my mind. It seems so simple when you first read it, but it encompasses so much of our faith. Not to mention that it has some very strong points that greatly impact our relationship with God in our everyday lives.
The first thing that I notice about the statement is the fact that faith is so important in just taking that first step. There are several stories in the Bible that illustrate this very well. One of the most notable is the story of Moses and his fear of speaking. Yet, God told him to speak to the Pharaoh about releasing the Israelites from Egypt . Then there’s Jonah who would have rather been swallowed by a big fish than follow God’s command to tell an entire city that they were doomed. In both cases they had to act according to God’s will, but were not confident that God would protect them. Faith is trusting God’s will and being willing to take that first step. That leads right into accepting God's grace and having faith that He will protect us in whatever He has chosen for us. Throughout the Bible, New Testament and Old, He continually tells us that we are His beloved. All we have to do is accept Him and trust Him. His love is infinite. Our trust leads to a deeper relationship, which leads to mutual love, etc.; and the circle goes on.
In the last few weeks, this quote has brought me much comfort. I know that, as I deepen my relationship with the Lord, His grace is there and His helping hand will guide me and catch me if I stumble. (CA)
It seems that this is a thought I'm supposed to "get" this week. My study group is reading Crazy Love, and the chapter we covered referenced many Bible verses that focused on opening our eyes to see what God has in store for us.
ReplyDeleteIt's been reported that when people find themselves in a desperate situation, they can usually recall parts, if not all, of the 23rd Psalm. “I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”
ReplyDeleteWhen we do open our eyes to see what God has in store for us, it’s a little less scary if we remember that He also has a plan to protect us. Thanks be to God.
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ReplyDeleteThis really makes me think of just how much God really loved me and was LONGING to have a relationship with me even while I wasn't opened up to where He was guiding me. I was living my own life and doing my own thing, and yet He still protected me. This quote, then, takes on new meaning for me as I now know Jesus and its amazing to think how much MORE protection and guidance I have now that I am following God's leading for my life.
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