Church devotion: It is Amazing - 1 Corinthians 15:10

1 Corinthians 15:10   But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect.

On Sunday mornings, I get to experience one of the best views in church from the pulpit. I see the entire worshipping congregation and, as I scan the people in the pews, I think about their struggles and stories and of how the amazing grace of God has been, and is still working in their lives.

I see people who are grieving the loss of loved ones, but in the midst of their heartache, they still hold on to the love of God.

I see folks who are undergoing serious tests or recovering from surgery, who have placed their prayers and lives into God’s healing hands.

I see parents who are bringing up their kids in the best ways that they can, providing them with encouragement and support, as well as nurturing them in the Christian faith.

I see people whose marriages are crumbling and they are struggling to maintain a sense of identity and security, praying to God for help and guidance.

I see single people who devote much of their time to the well-being of others, serving in the missions and programs of our church.

I see college students whose dreams are only just beginning and whose hard work and determination will bring about what they seek to do with their lives and how they can serve God in the world.

I see young people who are still at school, trying to do the best that they can and experiencing many new things in life. They still have that beautiful wonder of God and Life which delights the whole church.

I see and hear the infants, toddlers, and babies in our church and my heart is glad that they can find an extended loving family here.

I see all of these things and all of these good people, and it humbles me. The grace of God is evident in all of our lives and it is constantly amazing.

Questions for personal reflection

How do I experience the grace of God in my life? Where do I see it existing in the lives of others?

Prayer:            Loving God, Your grace is amazing and we are constantly astounded by its presence in our lives. Sustain our wonder of Your works and our love of our Lord. Be with us and bless all our loved ones this day. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment or ask a question about today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.