God is Love and God is Grace

There’s some amazing beauty going on behind the scenes over here and because of that, I’m more quiet than usual on my blog. I’m enjoying time with Jesus. It’s pure and simple: My Bible, music, and my journal, and if I’m outside, my camera too.  My time has also a wrestling match over here. God is asking me to tuck away with Him, to write the book of my heart. He says it’s time. At first I wasn’t sure I could go there. It’s too much, that former shame isn’t pretty to look at. But the good news is submission is a beautiful bouquet. Sure surrender hurts at first, but once we say, “Yes, Lord” something miraculous happens.

Seeds of love push through the soil of our heart.

Joy returns.

Peace reigns.

And the love of God blooms.

I told my daughter Hannah (who is home sick today) one of the most life changing prayers to pray is:

“God, fill me with YOUR love for ALL people.”

God is faithful to answer that prayer. It’s right up His alley. 🙂

Here’s my observation of what’s happened to me as I’ve prayed for more of God’s love over the years:

I cry easier, I pray longer and I forgive quicker. I can’t hate anyone. I feel the pain of those who are suffering, even those I’ve never met. And I’m even burdened to bow on their behalf. I lose sleep for those I love. I love God’s Word, I pray His Word. I praise the Lord through the storms of life. I feel thankful for a new day, every day. I feel small. I’m overwhelmed by God’s new mercies. I’m humbled He chooses me as I am. I’m addicted to His whisper. I’m excited to look for Love in hidden, ordinary places.

I’m broken, sweetly broken. And I wouldn’t change this for the world. Knowing the love of God is a gift of pure grace. Amazing grace. Who am I to be so blessed with the knowledge and love of God?

Today I dare you to start praying daily, “God, fill me with Your love for all people” and watch the walls come tumbling down.

And receive the fragrant gift of GRACE all over again!