To the Praise of His Glorious Grace!

My pastor has frequently recommended journaling through a book in the Bible. Since I journal on a regular basis, I haven't been diligent to heed his advice - until recently. Looking for a way to "spice up" my daily devotional time, the journaling idea came to mind. Ephesians seemed like a good place to begin, and so I did. What a rich experience it has been - and that's just the first 14 verses in just over a week!

This morning, I decided to review the first 14 verses again. I noticed a couple phrases that are repeated:

• According to the purpose of His will


• To the praise of His glory (or glorious grace)


• According to His purpose

That brought to mind something else my pastor said: "Everything God does is right as He sees right". Smart man, my pastor is!

Pondering these phrases, a memory filtered into my mind. Back in my college days, I was zipping around in the red, 5 speed Dodge Colt my sister and I shared. One of Ames' finest pulled me over for not making a complete stop. He didn't pull me over to be mean - but rather - to correct my error, so that I wouldn't suffer more severe consequences in the future. Oh, the shamefulness of my belligerent response. But he didn't write me a ticket - he simply gave me a warning. Now, I understand the mercy and grace he showed. Then, I was irritated at his presumption to tell me what to do. I deserved a ticket - I had earned it, especially with my sassy remarks and attitude. And yet, he gave me mercy and grace.

As I remember that occasion, it grieves me to ponder the times I have responded to God in a similar manner. Times when Jesus "pulled me over" - or when the Holy Spirit warned me against my foolish behavior. Times when I have bowed up against God and His authority in my life. Times when I still do...

After a lesson in the difference between Creator and creation - Job responded to the Creator correctly: "Behold, I am of a small account; what shall I answer You? I lay my hand on my mouth. I have spoken once, and I will not answer; twice, but I will proceed no further." (Job 40:4, ESV)

One of these days (I hope!) I will rest peacefully in the knowledge that God always does right as He sees right. And, as an all-wise, all-perfect, all-loving, gracious and merciful and just God - I can trust Him completely. One of these days, I will truly understand that my ways and my thoughts don't measure up to the perfect counsel of God - and I will quit trying to convince myself that I somehow know better. It may not be this side of heaven - but I am looking forward to the eternal inheritance set aside for me - by His grace and according to His will to the glory of His praise!