Empowered by Grace

But He gives us more and more grace [through the power of the Holy Spirit to defy sin and live an obedient life that reflects both our faith and our gratitude for our salvation]. Therefore, it says, “God is opposed to the proud and haughty, but [continually] gives [the gift of] grace to the humble [who turn away from self-righteousness].” James 4:6 AMP

What do you do when you feel sorry for yourself? You sit alone and refuse to interact with others. You are in a difficult place because life happened. There are so many things that happen in life; some things make you happy while others make you sad. The happy times bring joy and gladness but those sad moments can leave you feeling sorry for yourself. So how do you navigate those unpleasant moments in your life?

Well, as you read this verse, you will notice that the Apostle James talks about God’s grace. So why was it necessary for James to talk about grace here? Verse 1 begins, “What leads to [the unending] quarrels and conflicts among you?” So it’s safe to say that there were problems in the community of faith. When there are problems at your place of worship it can make the heart sad. And if you find yourself involved in the conflict it can leave you extremely sad and feeling sorry for yourself.

When that emotion takes up residence in your life remember that through the power of the Holy Spirit, God pours and pours grace into your life. When people see others who fall victim to circumstances, you may hear them say, “But for the grace of God.” God’s grace has purpose in your life. James says that God’s grace empowers you to defy sin and live an obedient life. You see, when you find yourself in unpleasant circumstances, it’s easy to operate in the wrong emotions and fall into sin. But when God pours His grace into your life, you will be able to identify the enemy at work and choose to operate in a manner that pleases God.

While life brings a host of activities both pleasant and unpleasant, you have the ability to choose your response. If you ignore God’s grace in your life then it’s quite possible to respond in an inappropriate manner. Although it’s not always easy to be gracious in pain, but the Holy Spirit in your life makes the difference.  So let’s thank God for His gift of grace.

Thought for Today: Friend, God’s grace makes the difference.

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory,