Friday, June 9, 2023 Submitted by Donnie O’Fallon
But God being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He love us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, - by grace you have been saved, - and have been raised up with Him and seated us in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages He might show the Immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7 ESV
Faith Produces a Life of Joy
In Brother Van's farewell address to North Side last Sunday morning, he spoke of the of us as being a church that has transitioned from being religious to being a church of Grace. I can see that, and I've pondered that thought a lot this week. Paul, writing to the Church at Ephesus, speaks of His grace applied in this life is also in the life to come in Christ Jesus. Living by faith now, we live in future grace. We never stop getting Grace from God for eternity, and we will never be deserving of what good comes to us.
So, what should be the disposition of our hearts concerning grace both now, but especially for the future Eternal Grace be? The future may be five minutes, five hours, or five years or more when we cross the finish line of life. God’s grace will sustain us into and through eternity. The older I get, I'm learning to trust in His grace and His power, moment by moment, step by step, until life is no more.
I want to remind your heart and mine, of Four Fruits of our Faith and Future Grace:
First - Joy will happen! Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith. - Philippians 1:25 ESV When you trust God to take care of your every need, you're happier that if you do not trust Him.
Second - God will be honored and glorified by that joy in Him. Your joy is in your heart is in your heart because of your faith in Him. God is most glorified when we have placed our confidence and hope in HIM. It is then we are most satisfied and at peace.
Third - When you have joy and He gets glory, then you are freed to think of and minister to others, not just think of yourself and your circumstances. That is perhaps one of the greatest needs for seniors and youth. I desire to be freed to serve where I am, whatever age I am. I want my words and actions to be full of grace toward those who need His grace, love, and a word from Him.
Finally - Because of the first three, God will receive public glory, that's visible. You and I are instructed to Let the words of our mouth and meditation of our hearts be acceptable and pleasing, and to Let our light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. God will get the glory from you being freed and when you're able to send that grace into the lives of others when we do that.
PRAYER: Lord may our faith grow, and Your grace abound through we, your people. Amen!
