SCRIPTURE REFERENCE

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV

TODAY'S INSPIRATION

Brian had spent the past few days discussing the topic of grace with his three children. He’d tried to explain it but he struggled for a way to put into the language of little ones.

Then one evening, he had the opportunity to demonstrate grace. He called his kids for bed, only to find his oldest son hurriedly scribbling on paper.

When he asked him what he was doing, he discovered the boy hadn’t written the book report he had due in the morning.

“But you had time to play with your friends and time to play on your phone,” Brian pointed out, frustrated with his child’s lack of time management.

His son looked disappointed. “I know, Dad. I messed up.”

Brian felt a wave of compassion as he looked at his son's face. The little boy's eyes began to fill with tears. In that moment Brian recognized the opportunity before him: he could react in anger and discipline his son, or he could let him know that although he made a mistake, his mistakes didn't make his father love him any less.

"I love you, son," said Brian. "You can stay up an hour past your bedtime tonight to get your homework finished. I know you'll do better next time."

Just like Brian was gracious toward his son, God is gracious toward you, His precious child! 

How can you remind yourself of God's grace today?

TODAY'S PRAYER

God, sometimes, I make a mess of things. I don’t handle things the way I should. Please grant me grace in these moments. In Jesus’ name, Amen.