Chapter 4: How to Receive Grace
One of the most profound statements in the Bible is contained in the Lord's prayer: "Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:9-13 We are to ask for God's will to be done on earth, and it is made very clear that God's will is done in heaven.
If earth is a training ground for God to teach us his will, there are two groups of us: those willing to learn and those who turn a deaf ear, insisting things be done their own way.
If one were forced to abide by God's will, would it not fill one with animosity? If animosity is not allowed in heaven, then those in attendance are likely to desire God's will.
Some believe that in the “small chance” that does God exists; then salvation can be obtained by "being good." “Earthly goodness” and “heavenly righteousness” are different paths in life. The first can become a self-imposed earthly rationalization, “I am good because…” Righteousness is a lifelong learning process; derived from prayer that molds our heart and is taught to us by a living God. Bow your head in prayer and ask God that our heart may come to know this!
A relationship with God is a gift. God has given us the freedom to choose. The gift is not forced upon us. One must ask for it. Ephesians 2:8-9 This gift is not given lightly for it was paid through God's son, Christ Jesus, who went to the cross. For those who accepted this gift, He offers us moments within the presence of the Holy Spirit John14:15-21, and the eventual presence of God for eternity.
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Experiencing God requires a step into the unknown beyond simply asking for forgiveness. It requires repentance, which includes the desire to turn away from sin.
If your heart does not yet know Jesus, this can be your moment. He is waiting for your consent to come into your life.
Bow your head and fold your hands in humility. Praying the following prayer requires submitting your heart before a God who loves you:
Dear Heavenly Father,
I have placed a lifetime of selfishness ahead of your will and wish to turn from my sin. I ask for your forgiveness. I now give to you my entire existence, my hopes, my dreams, and my ambitions. Please be my “Lord” so that I may submit to your desires ahead of my own. Allow “your will” to become my motivator for the remainder of my life.
Amen
Each day is no longer about you. This prayer is the first step in opening up to a new world of learning. God has the patience to rebuild your life, however, it requires taking this step to allow Him in. He does not force; it is your choice.
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Some having experience "spiritual birth" John 3:3-21, at a young age may have no recollections of the moment.
For some during the moment of this submission before God; the physical sensation associated with presence of the Holy Spirit may be experienced for the first time. Acts 8:14-17 Thoughts of God may go from just being a theory to knowing God exits.
For others, this re-birth may be a more gradual process.
Ephesians 2:8-9 explains that this spiritual birth is “by grace you have been saved, through faith” which is a gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."
Next Chapter: Forgiving Others
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Facing God
Chapter 2: The Bible and God's Plan
Chapter 3: What is Prayer?
Chapter 4: How to Receive Grace (current page)
Chapter 5: Forgiving Others
Chapter 6: Facing Ourself
Chapter 7: How to Pray
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