Strong in God’s Grace 488 words by Robert Schaetzle
The Apostle Paul addressed young Timothy with affection as one of his own when he shares; “You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”[2 Timothy 2:1-2NKJV]
Paul wanted Timothy to fully recognize and receive the presence of God’s grace; to understand this as something that would strengthen his own inner being to share with others. There are moments in each one of our lives we must purpose to remain steadfast, to see each situation we bring to God as His teaching us; for His powerful righteous right hand of authority to bring grace for the occasion.
Returning home from our fourth cross country trip recently, I viewed how our ‘Breadbasket of America’ is a measure of God’s provision and grace. Driving through these farming communities of central United States; I viewed the green rolling hills with miles of cotton in Texas, and Louisiana, and through our more northern central states, with winter corn being harvested. I could appreciate the value, hope, and purpose for how blessed a nation we are.
The world is so quickly changing before our very eyes, such that as we pray for one another and our Nation’s leaders; ask our Lord to help us find and follow hope as demonstration of grace for real purpose; to what this nation truly needs, more than what some people so selfishly demand.
Pray for our new President elect, our newly elected members of the congress; that God will keep knocking at the door of their hearts for ways and means of overseeing our nation to His honor.
“The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of his crops. Consider what I say and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.” [2 timothy 2:6-7]
Those who labor diligently are the first to reap the harvest. We are a Nation strong in God’s Grace, because our America holds onto hope.Keep praying our people today in this Republic will not let go our affection and understanding for pursuing God’s grace.
I found our farming communities show a deep respect for their role in feeding America, in addition, their lives demonstrate a real regard of faith in God. You begin understand why these farming communities are unashamed to be called ‘Faith Based Communities of America.’ They also demonstrate a patriotism with their faith, as one drives thru these small towns; their eager to display the red, white, and blue along city streets, and proudly, the stars and stripes in their yards, or painted on barns. They give purpose and vision to our Land, remaining faithful and hopeful to teach others, standing strong in God’s grace.
Robert lives in Sunnyvale, CA and serves in a Caring and Sharing Ministry