Grace and Peace

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 Grace and Peace 



It seems to be a common human problem to attempt to earn love and acceptance. We even try to perform to feel worthy of God’s love and favor. This is a futile effort. 


Despite the fact that intellectually I “know” this truth that it’s all by grace i am frequently prone to get discouraged because I compare myself with others who seem to be more talented and have more to offer than I do. 

We are instructed in the Bible that comparing ourselves is unwise. 


“We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2co.10.12.niv


Not only does comparing our worthiness with the deeds of others show a lack of understanding, it is utterly ludicrous because our acceptance and approval by God is not based on what we can do. God is love and He receives us based on what He has done on our behalf.  


“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2:8-9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

https://www.bible.com/bible/111/eph.2.8-9.niv


In his letter to the believers in Ephesus Paul begins his correspondence by proclaiming grace and peace to them.


“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1:2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

https://www.bible.com/bible/111/eph.1.2.niv


 I was struck by the fact that these two qualities were linked together. This prompted me to consider how vital it is that we are settled in grace, the truth that God loves us and accepts us and grants undeserved blessings and favor - that we don’t earn God’s love. Truly being established in that grace can bring peace - tranquility and serenity and calmness to our hearts. 


There are many worship songs about grace and peace. Some of my favorites include:


Amazing Grace


https://youtu.be/CDdvReNKKuk


Grace Got You by Mercy Me


https://youtu.be/xtiUjNT_vAM


Grace Wins by Matthew West


https://youtu.be/3a1WKcB7umU


Greater


https://youtu.be/vNIhczENa0I


Your Grace is Enough by Chris Tomlin


https://youtu.be/wtnE_e1LylY


It is Well with My Soul


https://youtu.be/AHe_qmo3gX4


Perfect Peace by Laura Story


https://youtu.be/6kj8pzDLcc8




Who am I 


https://youtu.be/mBcqria2wmg



Comments

Riverboat said…
I so liked your focus on the fact that real peace is a result of accepting the grace of God toward us. That helped me just now as I read your blog. It's nice to have the song list too. Thanks!
July 8, 2021 at 7:10 PM
The Upper Room Store Discourse said…
You are speaking truth in a way that anyone can understand. Sharing your vulnerabilities also gives hope to know that one is not alone on this journey. Also, that receiving God’s truth into our hearts and believing, is the the solution to everything!

Thanks for sharing! ;-)
July 9, 2021 at 1:19 PM
MaryBeth said…
Thank you so much for the encouragement!
July 25, 2021 at 5:01 PM
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