What is this thing called grace?

Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

What is this thing called Grace? Let's look at the definition

 grace

grās/

noun

1. 1.

   simple elegance or refinement of movement

   "she moved through the water with effortless grace"

   synonyms:

   elegance, poise, gracefulness, finesse;
2. 2.

   (in Christian belief) the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.

verb

1. 1.

   do honor or credit to (someone or something) by one's presence.

   "she bowed out from the sport she has graced for two decades"

   synonyms:

   dignify, distinguish, honor, favor;

When we look at the word grace used as a verb,does it surprise you?  In the verse above

the Lord tells us we are to show grace through our words and actions to everyone. I don't know about you but there are days when I am so short fused, and yet when I am, I have this overwhelming feel of regret and guilt.  While nobody is perfect there are somethings we can do to show more grace to those around us, yes even our kiddos :)  When we practice grace, we will feel stronger, and more in control.

Here are some awesome ways to show grace:

WORDS

We can show grace by watching our choice of words.  Words are a powerful thing.  We can tear someone down, or lift someone up.  There are times when we need to discipline, but instead of saying "you're so naughty!" , we could as them "Did you make a good or a bad choice?" We can show grace by responding in a caring, gentle way.  

SEEING THE NEEDS OF OTHERS

Are there people in your daily lives that could use an extra hand? A neighbor, and elderly friend, a grandparent?   Not only will you feel great about helping someone, your children will see it and learn to help others as they grow.  As we begin to be aware of our surroundings, we will see needs all around us.  Holding a door, picking up something a random person dropped, grace, grace, grace.

RESPOND WITH GRACE

Has someone criticized you or made you angry?  We have a choice to get mad and fight back, or we can respond with grace.  I'm not saying to let people walk all over you, but we have options. We can either receive those words, or we can throw them in the trash can.  I know I have a tendency to put my defenses up when I feel like I'm being criticized. It's hard, but I also know there are always things I can improve on.

I'M SORRY

Apologizing is such a powerful thing. Admit your wrong doings and move on.  Even if you weren't the one to throw the first fist (figure of speech).  Swallow your pride and apologize for your wrong response.  

THANK YOU

Thanking those that have helped you, given you a hand up, means the world to those doing the giving. We can do this with a card, or a note, or simply saying it.  

FORGIVENESS

Show others grace by forgiving them for their downfalls.  Nobody is perfect, forgive and forget. Move on, don't keep track of wrong doings.  Jesus keeps no record of ours, we don't need to keep a record either,  

SHOW INTEREST IN OTHERS

Are there things that your husband or significant other is interested in? When we show interested in the things they enjoy, it shows that we care about them and what they like.  My husband and I go bow hunting together.  I can't say that its one of favorite things to do, but its been rewarding for me to be out there with him.  We have seen some beautiful sunsets being out there together.  Or have you noticed how your kids eyes light up when you play a game or do something with them that they enjoy?  It's fun when we can share our interests with others. 

When we show grace to others our hearts will be filled and others will begin to see that.  Practice control, strength, and patience.  Everybody is dealing with things, including ourselves.  This is not an easy task, it takes practice, patience, love and peace.  I am working on this daily, and continue to fail.  The good news is that we are aware of it, and asking for forgiveness shows humility and grace.  We can make mistakes, we don't have to be perfect. He has an unending amount of grace for us, let us show that grace to those we come in contact with everyday.

Prayer time:

Thank you Father for the grace you show us everyday.  We love You so much, Lord we pray that You would help us to see others the way You do.  Help us to forgive and forget when people hurt us.  Help us to see the needs of others and give us the wisdom to be humble and apologize when we need to. We lay our worries at your feet Lord, and know they will be taken care of. All these things we pray in Your holy name, AMEN!