August 3

Written by Bill Grandi on August 3rd, 2020

I met and talked with someone in the past who has much to be thankful for. This person, even though he/she may not know it, or can put words to it, is one who has seen God’s magnificent grace in action. Rescued from a past that included addiction, abuse, shame and other ugly things, this person is in ministry to help others be free and learn freedom in Christ.

Grace has been shown to this person in a special way and their life’s desire is to help others experience that same grace. That is as it should be. Shown grace; give grace. It is unmistakable: we have been given grace to be grace givers.

That comes with an important element: forgiveness. To see God’s grace in all its fullness and richness we must forgive ourselves. I think-and this is me speaking personally-this is one of the toughest things to do. We often find it easier to forgive others-and even tell them they need to forgive themselves- BUT then struggle to practice that in our own life. I often wonder about the woman caught in adultery in John 8. Jesus told her He did not condemn her and go and sin no more. I’d love to know how she did. (Maybe my question will be answered when I see her in heaven).

Grace. Forgiveness. Two absolutely connected words. For me to someone else. For me to me. “Father, help me to receive Your grace and forgiveness and then show the same to others…as well as myself.”

 

4 Comments so far ↓

  1. Good Morning, Bill. I’ve found that so true in my own life. For a minute, I thought you were writing about me. Even though I know God forgave me and I’ve forgiven myself, my past comes back to mind once in awhle. The devil loves to condemn us. And we must realize that is from him. He wants us to wallow in regret. What a liar! Not God, no. He’s never brought my past back up to me. Not ever. I know this post will be beneficial to someone today, Bill.

    • Bill Grandi says:

      Good morning Diane. I’m a day late in responding. I had one of those days that involved two meetings and an appointment that turned out a bust. But there are days like that. I suspect there are more like you who have known God has forgiven them but haven’t been able to forgive themselves. You are right: it is the enemy’s lie. Your last sentence is my prayer every day.

  2. Grace and forgiveness always go hand in hand.
    Blessings, Bill!