This is just a test

Good morning! Have you been facing difficulties, rejection, and setbacks lately? Wow! I have, and I’m praying for the grace to make it through victoriously. I’ve developed a little declaration that’s helping me grow through it: “Paul, this is just a test. You can do it. Help, God!” 

friend, it’s time to access God’s divine grace. The grace of God has so many applications. It brings new believers to Christ. It can bring us new contracts for our businesses, protection for our families, or scholarships. The list of benefits and applications is almost limitless, just like the love of God. 

Paul the Apostle once said, “...how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” (Ephesians 3:18, NIV) I’m praying today that you will be able to experience the grace and love of God in new ways. 

I’ve seen the grace of God in action in so many situations, especially tough ones. I’ve even prayed for widows or widowers to experience this amazing grace while they are grieving. I’ve seen God answer our prayers.

friend, whether you’ve lost your job or someone you love, I’m praying His grace will fill you and help you carry the weight. My two sisters have been a support network for our sick mom who just passed away. They dedicated ten years to supporting, loving, and caring for her. I call them angels. Even in these past few days of death, details, and mourning, they’ve handled all the battles with grace. 

It’s amazing to watch people walk with an invisible grace that empowers them to rise above. My mom and dad both loved the song “Amazing Grace.” I’d love for you to listen to it today, worship, and sing along with this version by The Tenors and Natalie Grant. 

friend, even the Christians who seem the strongest need grace on difficult days. Paul, for example, had terrible persecution and sufferings. He even asked God to remove a sickness that was causing him so much pain: “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:8-9, NIV) God’s answer could be interpreted as a rejection or denial. Maybe your prayers weren’t answered the way you expected, and you’ve wondered why. But Paul found a grace that could sustain him and even make him stronger. 

I’m praying that you experience more grace today because you are a miracle.