“The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness”
Exodus 34:6b ESV
“Based on the gift each one has received, use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God.”
1 Peter 4:10 HCSB
“Your every action must be done in love.”
1 Corinthians 16:14 HCSB
Many times we feel frazzled. We’re spinning in circles trying to keep all the things moving along. We’re exhausted and confused because everything we’ve started remains undone. So we rush around attempting to complete the next task before the deadline.
At times like these, we need to take a step back to see what is truly important and let the other things wait.
Remember: people are more important than projects! If something needs to slip or change, make sure others feel validated and heard for who they are and not what they do. You can cancel plans if necessary, but do it with kindness.
Grace and Space allow us to take stock of what we are already doing well. Be flexible, allowing for adjustments when needed. Show grace to yourself and others.
Add in buffer times. Space allows us time to breathe and check in with the Lord. These buffers allow us to be less stressed in traffic jams and enable us to still arrive at our destination. They give us an opportunity to greet a neighbor we pass by and to notice the sky and landscape. Our hearts are less burdened.
God created the world and rested on the sabbath. He wants us to be still and come to Him when we are weary. He will give us rest.
God’s grace is always upon us. “But He said to me, ‘My grace is made sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 HCSB
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You for loving us. Help us to focus our hearts on You and keep You at the center of all we do. Please help us to plan according to the gifts and direction that You have given each of us, while allowing for grace and space to adapt our plans as needed. We long to be faithful stewards of Your Word and to honor You with our lives. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Journal: What can you do this week to add grace and space into your days?
Porch Chair Prayers 