Grace

Grief comes in many stages-denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Grief is the response to the loss of someone or something where a bond or affection was formed. In the form that grief comes through a connection with someone, the same applies to grace. Grace comes from the redemption of Jesus Christ through reconciliation (connection).

The same as grief comes in stages, grace comes with many forms -peace, love, forgiveness, joy, hope, compassion and the list goes on. Unlike the stages of grief which are meant to be temporary-God's grace is everlasting. Grace is there for those who need it as believers and for the sinners who need to make it right. It is up to those to obtain it, if they really want it. Sometimes you never fully grasp the power of his grace until tragedy hits. Whether its grief, disappointment, failures, mistakes, illness, etc. It is the time where you need the most help-the only true helper to solve dilemmas is the power of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 12:9- "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness."

Last month, I had to suffer the loss of a loved one and I know if it wasn't for God, I don't know what type of mindset I would’ve been in. The one thing that God taught me during that time was that His love and grace was always provided. It was hope that He restored in my soul to be able to continue on. It was the peace that He provided to stop the tears. It was grace that reminded me that my family will get through it. It was only grace that I could still praise Him in the midst of sad times. Its also grace that still gives me the patience to wait on the blessings God will give. Even though there still may be grief, grace is BIGGER. Victory reigns with God.

Maybe you're not grieving, but there may be a situation that you feel as if you just can't handle. There are song lyrics that say, "I know your problems seem God sized, if only you could see them through God's eyes". God's grace exceeds any issue you have. Psalms 55:2 Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. As believers you are who you are today because of His grace. You are strong, anointed, powerful, blessed...because of grace! We can't take for granted what God has appointed over our life. When times get rough, we can be so quick to throw in the towel, but we have to believe in the grace He's given and use it to our full advantage- He's already given us full access!

Ask God to fill you up every day when things are going right or wrong. You may realize that you're not as strong as you think you are, for the flesh is weak. There is a battle against the world every day. So when you overcome tragedies, you can look back and appreciate God even more. You didn’t get over it on your own-that was grace. Its so many people out there who go through losses or tragedy and can't bounce back from it-it is literally the end of their world. However with God's grace, there is life again. Grace=righteousness=eternal life. Whatever needs a change in your life can be done with God. If it's hope for better, peace during a storm, strength through the day, patience, etc.- you can have it ALL. Believe in God's everlasting grace.

1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

Numbers 6:24-26 The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.