Grace to take the next step

 Out of difficulties grow miracles. (Jean de la Bruyere)

We don’t want people to find anything wrong with our work. So, we do nothing that will be a problem to others. But in every way, we show that we are servants of God. We never give up, even though we face troubles, difficulties, and problems of every kind. We are beaten and thrown into prison. People get upset at us and fight against us. We work hard, and sometimes we get no sleep or food. We show that we are God’s servants by our pure lives, by our understanding, by our patience, and by our kindness. We show it by the Holy Spirit, by genuine love, by speaking the truth, and by depending on God’s power. This right way of living has prepared us to defend ourselves against every kind of attack. (2 Corinthians 6:3-7)

The followers of Christ are never guaranteed an 'easy path' - they are just guaranteed the presence of God with them on that path! We will face difficulties in life, but we have to choose how we will allow those difficulties to affect us - will they help us to grow, or defeat us right then and there? When we face life's issues with the attitude that 'in Christ's power and grace' we will never give up, it is quite different from facing it with "I WILL NEVER GIVE UP". One relies upon Christ in us, while the other leans heavily on our ability, talent, or perseverance. Only one of those will bring us through to the 'miracle'.

Live pure lives - making choices to serve Christ even when it is not easy. It might be easier to follow the crowd, but it won't produce the same results. It is in serving Christ, choosing his plans over our own or those of this world, that we actually become 'witnesses' of how his power and grace can bring us through even the most difficult of circumstances. I have come to realize we don't have to understand all God is doing in order to be obedient. We just need to choose the path least traveled, and we will 'grow into' that understanding. The path least traveled might require more 'moxie' than any other path afforded us today, but you can trust me on this one - it is the one that will produce the greatest reward!

God's power isn't always seen or felt, but we are assured it will be with us when we take steps toward obedience. We rely way too much upon what we can see or feel, making it harder for us to take steps of faith where they are needed. God's plan is to grow our faith - as we take the step forward. Faith isn't grown first and then we are obedient. It comes to maturity WITHIN obedience. Our understanding is expanded, our patience for the 'long haul' expands, and our hearts develop some kind of 'supernatural kindness' ON THE PATH. What happens is that our hearts, minds, and will are all learning to depend fully upon the power of God within us. As we move further and further away from what others may see as 'the way' into what God shows us as 'THE WAY', we will realize more and more of his power - the power that stems from grace - grace that helps us take each step of obedience. Just sayin!