Reading through the Chronological NLT last year, I began noticing in all Paul's letters that he wishes his audience in the Body of Christ "grace and peace." That's what I want for this particular time of year. How about you? Though there are plans to make and needs to meet, we can still experience God's grace and peace.
When Paul greets Timothy, his "true child in the faith," he mentions mercy, also (I Timothy 1:2). Don't we all need these three on a regular basis? To live the Still Life, our own prayer should be, “Lord, extend to me Your grace, Your mercy, and please, God, Your peace.”
As 2012 draws to a close, how are we doing? Paul calls for “entreaties…prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be made on behalf of all…for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” (I Timothy 2:1-2).
Where should our focus be to live the “quiet life?” Perhaps on prayer. Prayer humbles us. It sets our hearts aright. Prayer is the place we can crawl into and curl up in. God’s grace is revealed by the very act of prayer. King David and others have cried out, “Lord, are you listening?” And by the time they finished being in God’s presence, we witness how God assured them of His mercy, and extended His peace (to His true child in the faith).
Song for the Season:
“Draw me close to You; never let me go.
I lay it all down again, to hear You say that I’m Your friend.
You are my desire. Nothing else will do.
‘Cause nothing else could take Your place…”
Paul’s Prayer:
“I thank Christ Jesus…who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service; even though I was formerly (_____fill in the blank)…And yet I was shown mercy…and the grace of our Lord was more abundant, with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
…Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. And yet for this reason I found mercy, in order that in me…Jesus might demonstrate His perfect patience, as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen” (I Timothy 1:12-17).
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