Evidences of Grace

Without a doubt, the last few days have not been easy. But, we have been encouraged as we see the evidences of God’s grace all around us. Over and over these past few days, we have been reminded that we serve a good and faithful God. We have been given so much – so much more than we deserve. I was encouraged as I thought through our Lord’s kindness and mercy to us over the past few days. Of course, there is so much more than could ever be contained here, but these are just a few glimpses into the daily gifts of grace that God has given:

1. A wonderful, Christian doctor – who is truly a gift from God. He was straightforward and honest in giving the bad news, but almost in the same breath reminded me that we can take comfort in knowing where this child is (2 Sam. 12:23).
2. Hannah – her sweet hug and kiss as I lifted her into her carseat after the appointment. She is a treasure, a daily reminder of God’s undeserved blessing and grace in our lives.
3. The song that began playing on my car’s CD player as I started the car was This Hope’s “His Grace is Enough.” I certainly don’t mean to sound mystical about this – this was simply where the CD had stopped when I turned the car off. I’ve heard this song many times in the past, even once on the way to the doctor’s office, but as I listened to the words this time – especially the chorus, I heard it differently. I was gently reminded that only His grace is sufficient. (2 Cor. 12:9)
   His grace is enough for me
   In my weakness His power is made complete
   When it seems my strength is gone
   He’s the rock I rest upon
   His grace is enough for me
4. Our dear former pastor – Dr. John Street – who responded to our e-mailed prayer request within minutes, to let us know he would be praying for us.
5. Among Friends – our wonderful Sunday School class. We have truly felt as though we are “among friends” as we recieved so many e-mails and phone calls throughout the day. We have been able to see the body of Christ in action as so many offered help – running errands, making a meal, or just lending a listening ear if needed. Many shared that they too had been through a similar experience. Your love and support has been invaluable to us! We appreciate you more than we can say, and we thank the Lord for each of you!
6. Isaiah 40:8 “The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” Throughout many years in the AWANA program, I heard over and over again the importance of memorizing scripture. One of the explanations given was so that as trials come into your life, you will have the Word of God to draw on – for strength, for encouragement, to fight temptation. While I have seen that statement proven true in the past, it became crystal clear in these last few days, as so many of the verses that I memorized as a child came flooding back to the front of my mind. I recalled verses on God’s goodness, faithfulness to His children, His omniscience, His love. Many of our friends also shared verses with us that encouraged them through difficult times, or that simply magnify and praise the greatness of our God…What an encouragement it has been to look to God’s Word, and see His promises!

Yesterday, during the quiet drive to the hospital, the words to a hymn were floating through my mind. I don’t even remember the last time I actually heard this song. But, I have always loved the words, and memorized them several years ago. It is titled “He Giveth More Grace.” And, as I was lying in the recovery area, the truth of God’s grace began to sink in. As I “heard” the wonderful words to this song, I began to reflect on all that the Lord has done for me – for us, and the incredible grace that each of those things represent. He truly does give more grace as the burdens grow greater, and he multiplies His peace-the peace that passes all understanding-as our trials are multiplied. He draws from an inexhaustable well of goodness and grace. What a wonderful God we serve!

He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace. 

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.

His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.