The more I see how often I’ve walked by the light of my own understanding (which is dim compared to the TRUTH of the WORD of GOD), the more I marvel at the ocean of mercy God has poured over me. His grace washes away my pride, my striving, my need to be right.
“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” — Psalm 103:8
And when I stand in that mercy, I realize I can no longer cradle bitterness or resentment—they are heavy stones that drag me down and prevent me from experiencing the freedom to love.
“Bear with each other and forgive one another is any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13
When I judge another, I step into a role that was never mine to bear. That weight belongs only to God.
“There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?” — James 4:12
So I lay it down. I turn away from the tree that promises knowledge but breeds death, and instead I reach for the Tree of Life—where grace, forgiveness, and peace flow freely.
“Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb… On each side of the river stood the tree of life.” — Revelation 22:1–2
When Christians (Christ Followers, who believe the absolute truth of the Word of God) allow the spirit of offense to dictate our actions, we go against our own decision to let God be Lord over our lives. That’s when we become tossed around by the storms of the world—tossed like waves upon the ocean, losing sight of the shore.
“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.” — James 1:6-8
In those moments, we surrender our minds, imaginations, and words to the enemy, the deceiver and destroyer—who seeks to twist truth and control our soul: our mind, will, and emotions.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” — John 10:10
But when I allow the Holy Spirit to filter the words spoken to me, or the actions taken against me, or the things I experience in life (.) I find myself walking in peace—true peace, not as the world gives. Peace is not a place or a feeling; peace is a person—Jesus.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
With His peace guarding my heart, I gain wisdom to see each situation through heaven’s eyes, rather than through the distorted lens of darkness.
“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit.” — James 3:17
That is how I can have HOPE—a living hope, not just wishful thinking.
“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” — Hebrews 6:19
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” — Romans 15:13
Question:
Are you still holding the gavel, or have you surrendered judgment to the One who truly sees the heart? Be truthful – even with yourself.
No responses yet