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Posted by Dion Todd July 16th, 2019 5,861 Views 0 Comments
For there is no distinction, for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:22 WEB
It is so easy for us to become used to having positions, titles, and levels in the workplace during our life and then carry those ideas over into the church. After we have been around a while, we can begin to feel that we have earned our position, and our salvation. We may even feel that God is lucky to have someone as dedicated as us. We can become like the pharisee that stood on the corner and thanked God that he was not like other men (Luke 18:11).
The disciples of Jesus often argued over who was the greatest among them, and we still do today in some circles. In Matthew 18:1 the disciples asked Jesus who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. In Mark 9:34 the disciples were arguing over who was the greatest among themselves. In Mark 10:37, James and John asked Jesus to be seated on His right hand, and on His left, and the rest of the disciples became angry with them. In John 13:3, Jesus rose and washed the disciples feet, because all of them were far too important to perform the task of a servant. Who is the greatest was never far away from their mind.
We are all in the same boat here on Earth, and it is a boat named grace. We are brothers, sisters, and peers. Jesus said that the least among us would be the greatest (Luke 9:48). Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 8:1 that knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. If anyone thinks that he knows anything, he doesn't yet know as he ought to know.
We are floating in a sea of sin and if it were not for God's mercy, we would not even be on His boat. We would all drown in our sins just as the ones that missed the ark in Noah's day, for our own righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6) and our accomplishments, as dung (Philippians 3:8). We are saved through the grace of God, a free gift, by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8).
Be thankful today that God has given us the free gift of His grace. It costs nothing to be forgiven of everything that you have ever done wrong, but just like a true gift: We did not earn it. It is something given to us because the Giver is good, and He wanted to.
Prayer: Heavenly Father I thank You for the gift of salvation. Forgive me of foolish pride and keep me balanced in life. You are so awesome and so good to me, and I am truly grateful for all that You do. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray.
Note: Today is Pastor Dion's birthday :)! Just FYI, for those who would like to bless him with a "happy birthday" here today! ALSO, for those following our Creation Photographers group, here is the theme of the week: Psalm 46:10 "He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'" - 'Standing Still' is our next fun theme and is open for your creative interpretation. You are also encouraged to post anything else inspiring as well. My photos this week (in the group) reflect a few moments where I slowed down, stood still, and took the time to notice that God shows his love through all his creations. May you all find time to be still and allow God's love to show. Have a blessed and fabulous week! Here is the link: Creation Photographers
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