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Proverbs 3:34
Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble. 

Grace Unlimited by Charles Swindoll (taken from his book The Grace Awakening Devotional).

My plea is that we not limit grace to Christ. We, too, can learn to be just as gracious as He. And since we can, we must, not only in our words and in great acts of compassion and understanding but in small ways as well. Let me describe four practical expectations you can anticipate as you get a firm grasp on grace.


First, you can expect to gain a greater appreciation for God's gifts to you and others. What gifts? Several come to mind. The free gift of salvation. The gift of life. The gift of laughter, of music, of beauty, of friendship, of forgiveness. Those who claim the freedom God offers gain an appreciation for the gifts that come with life.
Second, you can expect to spend less time and energy critical of and concerned about others' choices. Wouldn't that be a refreshing relief? When you get a grasp on grace—when you begin to operate in a context of freedom—you become increasingly less petty. You will allow others room to make their own decisions in life, even though you may choose otherwise.
Cedar Creek Treasures
Third, you can expect to become more tolerant and less judgmental. Externals will not mean as much to you. You'll begin to cultivate a desire for authentic faith rather than endure a religion based on superficial performance. You will find yourself so involved in your own pursuit of grace, you'll no longer lay guilt trips on those with whom you disagree.

Fourth, you can expect to take a giant step toward maturity. As your world expands, thanks to an awakening of your understanding of grace, your maturity will enlarge. Before your very eyes, new vistas will open. It will be so transforming, you will never be the same.

Comments (11)

On November 18, 2011 at 8:58 AM , Amanda said...

This is an awesome word. It is an area I definitely need to work on. Constantly worried about others choices especially ones that affect me. Going to start praying for a better understanding of grace :)

 
On November 18, 2011 at 10:03 AM , Tricia said...

Wonderful reminder to be gracious as Christ was/is gracious to us. Love the items too!

 
On November 18, 2011 at 10:53 AM , Cynthia said...

I am honored and humbled to be a part of the showcase, today. And, I give thanks to our Lord!
Oh, the magnificent power of His grace!!!! The power is, indeed, transforming and eye-opening. As you recognize the beauty and comfort of grace, you cannot help but extend that same grace to others. Your heart will overflow with the love of the Lord and it simply cannot be contained within you. The compulsion to share His grace will be stronger than the "self." May you all recognize, experience and extend the magnificence of His grace.~Blessings

 
On November 18, 2011 at 11:05 AM , MarveLes Art Studios said...

Quite touching; beautiful and always.. the word of God is inspiring... our green pasture and still waters. Amen.

 
On November 18, 2011 at 11:22 AM , Linda said...

The Lord's Grace in our life.... It is what makes us who we are meant to be... Grace, It's amazing!

 
On November 18, 2011 at 2:21 PM , MYSAVIOR said...

Wonderful post. Thank you!

♥♥♥
Sue

 
On November 18, 2011 at 3:08 PM , Lorrie said...

Love the teaching of Chuck Swindoll.Thanks for this gentle reminder of how grace in ourselves can grow and mature us.

 
On November 18, 2011 at 3:34 PM , bananaorangeapple said...

Yep, I want to live in the freedom of God. Thanks for the devotion.

 
On November 19, 2011 at 10:48 AM , Faith Caroline said...

Beautiful and a good reminder :) Thank you!

 
On November 19, 2011 at 12:30 PM , Donna (Twinmountainpottery) said...

This is a beautiful and inspiring post. Thank you for sharing! The books by Chuck Swindoll are fantastic and I always enjoy them. Loved all of the items you shared - visited each of their shops too!

Now to go an pray that I can also understand Grace better.

 
On November 22, 2011 at 5:58 AM , Deb (Two Cheeky Monkeys) said...

Absolutely beautiful finds and a good verse to remember!