Grace and Peace

-

 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
Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Happy Birthday Tanner!

-
Image
Today is my beloved dog Tanner's birthday. It's a nice time to reflect on how special he is, and how grateful I am to have him as an important part of my life. It's also a good excuse to "brag" about him and share some favorite pictures: This is when we first met. I can hardly believe it has been three years already! Tanner won my heart right away  He can be quite silly! Tanner loves to play... But he does his job when I need him - a very talented dog indeed! He closes the door                                                            Tanner turns on and off lights And we have even had the opportunity to teach children  about service dogs. Tanner is excellent at many things ... But he is BEST at being a faithful canine companion
Read more

Tanner the Star

-
Image
As I had mentioned, Tanner and I had the privilege to talk to kids about service dogs. It was quite enjoyable. The children were an eager interested audience! I tried my best to explain what a benefit Tanner is to me. Tanner is indeed a special star demonstrating some of the things he does for me.  The teacher has a blog and posted an entry about the event. I'm sharing it with you in case you're interested: http://klette2.blogspot.com/2010/04/marybeth-and-tanner-come-to-visit.html Who could have thought that I would be blessed with such a beautiful service dog and together we would do something which I love ... interact with children.
Read more

Ambassador

-
An opportunity has arisen for Tanner and me to speak to children in public school classes about the benefits of service dogs to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. (For those of you who may not know, Tanner is the handsome canine in the blog photo.) As I am planning the presentation, I expect I will probably talk about Tanner’s training, show some photos and perhaps a video of him doing his “work”, and of course discuss appropriate etiquette for interacting with service dogs and their partners. (I must confess that “Do Not Pet” rule is a tough one for me and my very sociable canine companion). I want to be well prepared with useful information presented in a manner that will engage the audience and be memorable. In addition to providing accurate information, I want to convey how valuable service dogs are to the humans with whom they are matched. It is my desire that Tanner and I will be good ambassadors for Dogs for Disabilities. http://www.dogsfordisabilities.com/
Read more