As for the fact that God raised Jesus up from the dead, no longer to return to decay,
He has spoken in this way: I will give you the holy and sure blessings of David.
Acts 13: 34, 35 NASB
The Holy Spirit set apart Paul and Barnabas to do the work of God for which He’d called them. They preached the good news and reminded the crowds that God had “put up with His people for forty years in the wilderness.” Not only did the sons and daughters of Israel rebel, they requested judges and then a king; and so, God raised up David, the son of Jesse, a man after His own heart. David was far from perfect, but he repented of his sin and turned back to God.
David is a witness to the nations of God’s mercy. (Isaiah 55: 3,4) Forgiveness is offered for our sins. We can be freed from all things—people pleasing, addictions, sexual brokenness, fear, self-doubt, anger, and bitterness. All things. Our salvation is not gained by works.
Paul and Barnabas challenged the listeners in Acts 13 to “continue in the grace of God!” It’s a message for today. God’s grace is extravagant, kind, charitable, benevolent, and full of goodwill. It is unmerited mercy and humble servanthood; shoes laced, sleeves rolled back, and gritty grins. We bow, die to ourselves, and choose forgiveness. We let go of our right to control the effort and outcome. Forgiveness is for-giving.
Grace is a gift of unexpected favor, a well-being and well-doing unto others. It’s an attitude. God sees our struggles, our good intentions, mishaps, and failures; but He also knows our loss and underlying hurts and fears. He isn’t rattled. Sin, shame, and guilt separate, but Jesus unites. He widens our circles. Likewise, God delights in us. He bestows joy, gratitude, and acceptance.
God grants us holy and sure blessings. His love is devoted, loyal, faithful, and steadfast. Pure. His blessings are trustworthy and resolute. May we listen, learn, and live with thankfulness. Since we’ve been given such a lavish gift, we’re called to do the same.
When we’re confused, we don’t know what to do or say, or how to pray, we can “continue in the grace of God.” The Holy Spirit works in us as we endure and seek the benefit of the doubt. We re-frame the lies, negativity, and damage with God’s Truth. And we make room for others. The balcony seat provides the long view. So, we listen with our eyes and respond with our heart. We walk the uncomfortable hallway and say the hard things. Jesus’ resurrection power is for us. His light will break through our differences. We must be unwavering in our call to spread Hope.
God does a work in His people that is indescribable. He frees us of all things. Trust in His holy and sure blessings!
May the Holy Spirit enable you to continue in God’s grace,
Lily Mae
Incline your ear and come to Me, listen that you may live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, according to the faithful mercies shown to David. Isaiah 55: 3,4 NASB
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