Who I Am

     I've always had trouble understanding how grace works.  In recent months God has opened my eyes and understanding...a little.  He's made me to understand we are nothing without him and that he loves us in Christ.  When he looks at me, he sees his son, Christ.

     Ps. 130:3 says, "Lord, if you punished people for all their sins, no one would be left, Lord.  And Rom. 3:19 says that, "...the law only shows us our sin."


     Now, Eph. 1:3-13 lays it out for me.  It says:  IN CHRIST, God has given us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly world.  That is IN CHRIST, he chose us before the world was made so that we would be his holy people - people without blame before him.  Because of his love, God has already decided to make us his own children through Jesus Christ.  That was what he wanted and what pleased him, and it brings praise to God because of his wonderful grace.  God gave that grace to us freely, IN CHRIST, the one he loves.  IN CHRIST we are set free by the blood of his death, and so we have forgiveness of sins.  HOW RICH IS GOD'S GRACE, which he has given to us so fully and freely.  God with full wisdom and understanding let us know his secret purpose.  This was what God wanted and he planned to do it through Christ....... We are the first people who hoped in Christ and we were chosen so that we would praise to God's glory.  So it is with you.  When you heard the true teaching, the Good News about your salvation you believed in Christ.  And IN CHRIST, God put his special mark of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit that he had promised. 

     Oh My Goodness!  That is so awesome!!!  God is good.  It may be that this is meant for me and me only... but I don't think so.  Is. 55:11 says that his word will not return to him void.  In other words it will accomplish what he intends it to.  I've been praying as I write this, that when you...whoever you is...when you read this you'll realize how important You are to HIM.  How much he loves you and wants you for his own. 

    Father, thank you for letting us know you love us.  That through your son, Jesus, we are precious to you.  Lead me closer to you, Lord.  I pray that others see you in me every day.