The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:14-17

 What is the difference between a Christian and an unbeliever? Is it a keen sense of morality? An unparalleled ability to live a sinless life? Or maybe it’s exceptional wisdom that leads us far from the wretched ways of the wicked! Ugh, it was difficult to even type those words. But there have been far too many times where I’ve lived out those ugly attitudes in my thoughts, words, and actions. The ONLY difference between a Christian and an unbeliever is the power of the Holy Spirit that graciously leads us to the throne of God by the blood of Jesus. Any sense of morality we have comes from being made in the likeness of our God. Any ability to resist temptations comes from the the Holy Spirit leading us to obedience for our own sanctification. And recognizing the ways of the wicked? That’s discernment usually peppered with our own arrogance and pride that we have not fallen into such a lowly state of sinful behavior. But THE GRACE OF OUR LORD IS POURED OUT ON ME ABUNDANTLY! Can we ignore the sins of others long enough to claim that the title of “the worst” might apply even to our own wicked hearts? In light of this truth, how do we approach the sins of others? Are we displaying to them our disgust at their depravity or are we a willing example through which Jesus is able present his immense patience that they might believe in Him? My hope is that as God binds our wandering hearts to His, that we will have patience to wade through the sorrow that unrepentant sin against our Heavenly Father brings to preach the gospel through love to other eternal beings not living under the grace of Christ.

So what is our response to someone we meet that works in the abortion industry? Or the women considering walking through those doors to end the life of her child? And Then There Were None and Embrace Grace provide patience and love through their ministries that they might show that abundant grace can be poured out no matter where you are at in life when you accept the free gift Jesus gave on the cross. When you shop at Hope Outfitters, remember to pray for the people that your contribution will help reach! They not only need encouragement through their circumstances, they need their Savior, and they need to know just how good He is! Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be the honor and glory forever and ever!