Rebel with a Cause: Will vs. Grace
Wednesday, August 16, 2023
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." Ephesians 3:16-19 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Tammy continues. "When I came to Christ, will and grace came face-to-face. My will encountered his grace. My will stood obstinate and resistant; his grace stood patiently, hands extended in mercy and arms open wide in love.
"Many Bible verses speak of obedience. Our ultimate response to these verses is embedded in our view of God. That is why the prayer from Ephesians 3:16-19 (today's scripture) is such an important one to pray. I have prayed it for myself repeatedly over the years. Once we understand how deep God's love is, then we will no longer see his law as a list of endless, unattainable rules. We will understand that he has a plan that exceeds our own and we can trust him because his love is limitless."
Consider this …
God is all knowing. He has a plan for each of us. He has a plan for you. As we begin to comprehend how deep his love is, we will begin to trust his plan. To desire his plan above all else. And for this kind of growth, we must obey him. Because we love him. Because he loves us unconditionally and extends his mercy and grace to us. Because he is God.
Are you trusting him in every area of your life? Is that trust reflected in your obedience?
Prayer
Lord, I do believe but help me trust you more. Help me better understand your love and grace. Help me to respond in love and obedience. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from … Lessons Learned: Moving from Homosexuality to Holiness by Tammy Webb-Witholt. This group study offers biblical tools, along with an abundance of hope, to anyone struggling with homosexuality. It is also a great group for anyone desiring a deeper walk with God. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study.
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