Growing in the Fruits

As I watched a sermon by Andy Stanley this week, I was intrigued as he taught on law-thinking versus grace-thinking. He gave examples of how they were different...For example, we take a look at the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians (-Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control). Law-thinking says, (with ALL sincerity), "God I want these fruits in my life, so please help me to be more patient, more loving, more at peace..." I have to admit, at this point, I was thinking, "what's wrong with that??" He went on to explain that Grace-thinking says, "God, I know I am hopeless without you. Please work in my life and shine through me. I know I can do nothing without you already doing the work." At the end of the week this person reflects on his week, and is amazed and says, "God, thank YOU for working in my life. I realize that you made me more patient this week then I've been in a long time. I realize you created a love inside of me for people that wasn't there before. I have felt at peace without realizing it..... See the difference? The law-thinker struggles and strives to DO something for God and ends up more stressed and begging God for more strength. The grace-thinker already knows he has nothing to offer but submission to God's plan. He rolls it all onto Jesus and (this is the big part) Lets.It.There. When we get to the end of ourselves, and cry out to God saying, "God, I can't do this any more. I can't handle any more." God, in His loving patience say, "My Child! I KNOW you can't. I've been waiting for you to realize this. NOW, I can work in your life."

This has been swirling around in my head all week. I hope it's something for you to ponder and challenge you as it certainly has me!!! Blessings.