Soaking in Grace

Over the decades we have learned what agents are effective for certain needs.
Jerry and I should have bought stock in The Clorox Company when we first married almost fifty-six years ago, since it is the most powerful solution for mildew and especially for bloodstains. If I can get Jerry’s tees and the sheets before the blood sets in, it will rinse out with cold water. But usually, they end up soaking in strong bleach water. His blood thinners are good for A-fib and other heart issues, but even a slight brush of the skin or a simple scratch causes unwanted bleeding.
As I was applying a little more bleach to some stains this morning, I was reminded of the power of God’s grace, in which I have learned to soak.  He brings me to His Word, and while I spend time there, His Spirit does His work to cleanse any stains from my heart, to revive my spirit, and brighten my hopes and joy in Him. He takes as much time with me to work His desired effect. I stand in wonder of His grace in my life and others who cherish His Word and spend time in communion with Him. He brings forth in us praise and adoration. The effectual working of His grace in our lives shows His humility and holiness ~ the witness of His presence and power to others.Gracious Father, you alone know our hearts and what we need to prepare us for your glory. Yours is the power of cleansing the devastating work of sin. Your grace alone is effectual to cleanse a leopard’s spots, making us holy in your Son, Jesus Christ. Have mercy upon us today and while shedding abroad your love in our hearts, let it spread to those around us. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole
I want Thee forever to live in my soul
Break down every idol, cast out every foe
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow
Refrain
Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow
Lord Jesus, for this I most humbly entreat
I wait, blessèd Lord, at Thy crucified feet
By faith, for my cleansing, I see Thy blood flow
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow
Lord Jesus, Thou knowest I patiently wait
Come now, and within me a new heart create
To those who have sought Thee, Thou never saidst no
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow
Lord Jesus, let nothing unholy remain,
Apply Thine own blood and extract every stain;
To get this blest cleansing, I all things forego—
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
James L. Nicholson 1872
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16 thoughts on “Soaking in Grace

  1. Hi Fran, excellent post! I find a close correlation between time spent in God’s Word and real connecting prayer. Seems like one just naturally feeds into the other. And, what I find so fulfilling is that very often, the subject that God’s Word brings to my awareness is not even on my radar but that quickly changes and it usually answers a deep need. Have a blessed day!

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  2. Frances, you continue to illustrate God’s grace in your life. It is obvious that circumstances in your life are difficult, but you persist in seeking God’s will, choosing the joyous path rather than the somber, and still strive to lift the spirits of your readers. I know that you lift mine. Thank you so much for the work you are doing for the Kingdom.

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    1. Thank you David. It is the circumstances of this life ~ the wilderness experience ~ in which our Lord finds us and ministers to all our needs, leading us to live content in HIs grace through all things. Have a blessed day of grace.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. I love how you always find the parallels between how you care for Jerry, and how God cares for us. I need to model your approach while caring for my kids. Thanks for the inspiration!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Claire, thank you for reading and commenting. My children were the first objects and introduction in my role as a caregiver, followed by grandchildren, my dad, my mother, then Jerry. As for all things, our example was set by the Master caregiver, our Lord Jesus Christ. His Spirit of humility, love and grace within us works out in all He calls us to do in this life, preparing us for eternity to serve and praise Him. Blessings as you continue to serve your husband and children.

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