Be Gracious!

Psalm 103:8 -The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
     I have mellowed in my older age but I have to admit that back in the day my patience for ignorance was nil or next to none; especially in conversation. Once I discerned that the person I was talking with was a filibuster, a show boater, a braggart or a liar, I dismissed them and dismissed myself from the conversation. Why waste good listening on foolish talk.
     In some regards we have all played the role of the 'mouth' when we have approached God with foolish talk; whether we were telling God about our plans, our directives, our decisions or belly-aching about our circumstances. We have engaged in show boating when we speak more highly of ourselves than we ought knowing full well that if it was not for the grace of God we would be lost. We have all lied, even if it was only to ourselves about our abilities to handle our lives.       Through it all God never gives us his love in a filter. He does not handle us ‘straight with no chaser’. His love is always embraced with not only mercy but grace. God never dismisses us or tunes us out. He is a gracious in his love and care.
     We must exercise gracious living when we interact with others. Not everyone will respond favorably but that is not our concern. Covered in the blood of Jesus and guided by our Advocate, the Holy Spirit, we must exhibit behaviors that edify, lift and encourage those that might not know how great our God is. We are a reflection of the God we serve; so always put your best foot forward and be gracious!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn