WHAT IS THE RICHES OF GOD'S GLORY?

   

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THE RICHES OF GOD'S GLORY

THE MANIFESTED WITNESS OF HIS GOODNESS

“…riches of his glory in Christ Jesus…”  (Philippians 4:19 & Colossians 1:27 KJV).

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You are RICHLY blessed, NOT simply for the mere temporary earthly possessions, how limiting, but for the awesome, eternal blessings, which are embodied in the “…riches of his glory…” (Philippians 4:19 KJV). First of all, God has“… [made] known… [to you]...the riches of the glory … which is Christ in you…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV).

When compared to all the temporary riches of this world NOTHING will EVER surpass the “…riches of his glory…” (Philippians 4:19 KJV). The “…riches of his glory…” is the Good News, a truth ABOUNDING with God’s Glory in Jesus Christ.  God’s Glory, is Jesus, the Living Word made flesh and “….is the [miraculous]… power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV). 
THEREFORE, GOD'S GLORY IS THE DISPLAY, THE EXPERIENCE, AND WITNESS OF GOD'S GOODNESS

“….the riches of the glory … which is Christ in you…” (Colo!ssians 1:27 KJV). “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). Jesus Christ is the hope of his Glory, because God was revealed to the World through Him.

The hope of God’s Glory is Jesus, who actually represents the hope of a better inner and outer life both present and future. How? Through “….the [miraculous]… power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

This truth should so arrest the heart that it fires up a passion within that penetrates the entire mind, body, and soul. “….the riches of the glory … which is Christ in you…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV).

When the apostles learned of the “...riches of the glory…” which was also for them “…Christ in [them].....” they couldn’t wait to share it with everybody! Peter gave up everything to follow Jesus, the hope of Glory. “Then Peter began to speak up ‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…’ (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

 Paul said, “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

The apostles knew they were rich with the Good News of the Gospel. What was the point of knowing anything if you didn’t know the ONE who was everything? “…I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

Apostle Paul, especially, suffered through many trials, difficulties, and tribulations with his people, the religious community, the Jews, and others regarding the hope of Glory he found in Jesus Christ. He suffered captivity, danger, lack, and potential death.  “…For his sake I have discarded everything else…that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

“….the riches of the glory … which is Christ in you [and in Paul]…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). This was such a Glorious Truth that Paul thought it was worth all the pain, heartache, and sacrifices he endured to get the message to the World.

Paul had been mistreated in the places and by the people, in which, he was sent to minister the good news too. He was treated with disrespect and dishonor as if he was the scum of the earth. Yet, he still believed in the “VALUE” of the GLORIOUS message he was given to live and preach.

The VALUE of the GLORIOUS message, “…the hope of glory...” (Colossians 1:27 KJV), held a priceless conviction within his heart. He had personally experienced the miraculous benefits of its comfort, guidance, love, and worth and was sold-out to the power and effectiveness of its salvation message. “….the [miraculous]… power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

Paul was absolutely convinced, that the VALUE of the GLORIOUS message of salvation was “…the RICHES of his glory…” and “...the riches of the glory ... is Christ in you, the hope of glory…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…Christ in you…” is “…the Word [that] was made flesh, and dwelt among us...” (John 1:14 KJV). The WORD, the Worthy message, the “….hope of glory.,.” or THE "GOODNESS" OF GOD, or the “…riches of his glory….” is Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:27).

Again, Paul said, “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

“...the riches of the GLORY ... is Christ in you,…the hope of GLORY…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). What is God’s glory in this verse? I think God’s glory, in Colossians 1:27 is Jesus. Jesus embodies his abundant love, the reality of that love, the proof of that love, the SOURCE of that love, the SOURCE of his unending goodness, and is the quintessence of ALL that HE is, especially in HOLINESS.

We know, without a doubt, “The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the EXACT representation of his being….” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). . ^“Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and SENT His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “… The Word (Jesus, his Son)… became flesh. We have seen his GLORY, the GLORY of the one and only Son, who came from the Father....” (John 1:14 KJV).

In the book of Exodus, Moses asked about God’s glory too. Do you remember being told not to look directly at the sun?  If you do happen to look at the sun with the naked, human eye, the damage to the retina is irreversible.

God’s glory is more brilliance than that of the sun. “And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof…” (Revelation 21:23 KJV). God’s glory is ALL his holy attributes; which are pure, like transparent light, sinless, untainted, and beautiful.

In Exodus, “…Moses said, “…show me your glory.” …The Lord said, “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. …But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my GLORY passes by, I will …cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

Looking directly at the sun damages the eyes, looking at God’s Glory will kill you. LOL. “…You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my GLORY passes by, I will …cover you with my hand until I have passed by….” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

God’s Glory (GOODNESS) passed by Moses and it was the abundant love, the reality of that love, the proof of that love, the SOURCE of that love, the SOURCE of his unending GOODNESS, and the quintessence of ALL that HE is, does, and will do especially in HOLINESS. God’s Glory is so RADIANT, “…no one [can] see [Him]… and live…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).  

God’s Glory (GOODNESS) distinguishes HIM from all others “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). His Glory (GOODNESS) marks him with privileged magnificence shared with NO other.  “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God’s glory (GOODNESS) establishes him in a category of GREATEST and MAJESTY all by himself, “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…majestic in holiness…” (Exodus 15:11 KJV). “Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, You are very GREAT; You are clothed in SPLENDER and MAJESTY, Covering Yourself with LIGHT as with a cloak…”(Psalm 104:1-2 NASB). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

His Glory (GOODNESS) places Him HIGH above all other unique, valuable, priceless, or rare riches; and the radiance of his GLORY is deadly to the human eye. “…no one [can] see [Him]… and live …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “…His radiance is like the sunlight; He has rays flashing from His hand…” (Habakkuk 3:4.NASB).

God’s Glory is flawless and “…there is none like unto thee, O LORD; thou art GREAT, and THY NAME is GREAT in might…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…. the whole earth is full of [your]…glory…” (Isaiah 6:3).

I can’t give God’s glory its due diligent, but I will make a finite attempt to write about three aspects of God’s glory I’ve studied: the visible manifestation of his glory, the power of his glory, and Jesus Christ, the radiant witness of his glory.

The visual manifestation or symbols of his glory is His “known” presence. “…The heavens declare the GLORY of God…” (Psalms 19:1 KJV).  ^“..And ye said, Behold, the Lord our God hath SHEWED us his GLORY and his greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have SEEN this day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth…” (Dueteronomy 5:24 KJV).

“It came even to pass, as … [they] praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the Lord; So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the GLORY of the Lord had filled the house of God…” (2 Chronicles 5:13-14 KJV).

“…..Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest SEE the GLORY of God?” (John 11:40 KJV).

“….The God of GLORY APPEARED unto our father Abraham…” (Acts 7:2 KJV).

“…Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and SAW the GLORY of God…” (Acts 7:55 NIV).

“And the temple was filled with smoke from the GLORY of God and from his power … ”(Revelation 15:8 KJV).

“It shone with the GLORY of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal…” (Revelation 21:11 NIV).

“And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the GLORY of God did lighten it, and the Lamb (JESUS) is the light thereof…” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

“And [For 40 years] [God’s glory] went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light (His glory); to go by day and night…Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the GLORY of the Lord filled the tabernacle.  So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the SIGHT of all the Israelites during all their travels…” (Exodus 13:21 KJV; Exodus 40: 35-38 NIV).

“The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people “SEE” HIS GLORY…” (Psalm 97:6 KJV).

In the Old Testament, the pillar of cloud, pillar of fire, and the smoke represented God’s glory and were visual manifestations of his glory. These symbols of God’s glory were visible to the Israelites. These symbols also represented his presence as He also spoke to them through the cloud, or thunder, or lightening. ^“…Behold, the Lord our God hath SHEWED us his GLORY and his GREATNESS, and we have HEARD his voice out of the midst of the fire: …” (Deuteronomy 5:24-25 KJV).

The POWER of his Glory is witnessed through the manifestation of His power in the different situations and circumstances of life. “…..This sickness is not unto death, but for the GLORY of God…” (John 11:4 KJV). “…Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will SEE THE GLORY OF GOD?…”(John 10:40 NASB). “…Jesus said…I AM the resurrection and I AM the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “And HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go...” (John 11:43-44 KJV).

“….HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH...” was the manifestation of the POWER of his Glory. “….I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…all GLORY to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. GLORY to him … in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen…” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NLT).

Finally, Jesus Christ is a witness to His Glory. “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the GLORY of God in the face of Jesus Christ…” (2 Corinthians 4:6 KJV).

“And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the GLORY of God the Father” (Philippians 2:11 KJV).

“The Son is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the exact representation of his being…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

“If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the GLORY and the power for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:11 NIV).

“And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the GLORY of God did lighten it, and the Lamb (Jesus) is the light thereof…” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

When you know what his glory is, like the angels, you can personally recognize God’s glory, acknowledge it, praise it, and reverence it.  “…“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his GLORY…” (Isaiah 6:3). “…the earth is filled with the LORD's GLORY…” (Number 14:21 NLT).

Remember, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

 “…Jesus Christ is Lord, to the GLORY of God the Father…” (Philippians 2:11 KJV). “The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the exact representation of his being….” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

In other words, Jesus, the word, the message, the “good news” possessed more riches and value than anything else in this world. Paul said, in comparison, it was ALL worthless. “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

God wants you to see his glory, experience the power of his glory, and know the riches of his glory, like he did Israel. “He said to [them].., "You are My Servant, Israel, In Whom I will show My GLORY…” (Isaiah 49:3 NASB).

You are God’s servants and he WANTS to show you His Glory “in” Christ. “….The Word (Jesus) became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we [can see] His GLORY, …” (John 1:14 NASB). You can see God’s Glory because, “The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the EXACT representation of his being….” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

God’s glory is God himself and ALL his HOLY being. So then, what is the “riches” of His glory? “…The mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make KNOWN what is the RICHES of the GLORY…..; which is CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory:…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “…I pray that out of the riches of His GLORY, He may strengthen you with POWER through His Spirit in your inner being…” (Ephesians 3:16 NIV).

Are you getting it? The “riches” of His Glory is “Christ in YOU.” The question is for you is NOT “What is God’s Glory,” but “Where is His Glory today?” This truly boggles the mind, but it is nonetheless true, His Glory is IN YOU!  “…To whom God would make KNOWN [where]… the riches of the glory [is]….. which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV).

“ …We (YOU) have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the POWER may be of God, and not of us...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). God’s Glory or ALL that God’s is - is IN YOU through Christ Jesus. “…Know ye not your own selves, …that Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians KJV). “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

Paul knew he had received something priceless and valuable. The “…riches of God’s glory….” highly contributed to the welfare, overall health, and healing of ALL mankind. God’s truth, the “good news” is more valuable than anything else in this world. Paul knew if he could get the message out there, no matter what it costs; it would pardon sin and save souls.

When you are praying for a love one: spouse, friend, sibling, parent, child, or acquaintance you want to save their soul from death. For instance, if a wife was praying for a backsliding husband, who didn’t readily repent from his sins; she may have to pray for days, weeks, months, or years. In the meantime loving him may be painful, cost her untold heartache, she may become weary, and have little or no earthly rewards from loving him. But she endures it or stays the course because she believes if her husband can get the “good news” in that sinful place it will pardon his sin and ultimate save his soul. The wife is convinced that the priceless and valuable word of God will ultimately heal and restore both her husband and their marriage.

When you are convinced or know “…the riches of his glory…” “…..which is Christ in you…” you will follow him into the war zones of human life.  “Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far more than he does his … own life—otherwise he cannot be my disciple…” (Luke 14:26 NLT). “.. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever…” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

The SOURCE of your RICHES are not outward aspirations, possessions, or material things, but “…Christ in you…” As long as you don’t have a clue what you have been given “in” Christ you will continue to chase after and sell your soul for what is WORTHLESS.

What you sell your soul for is not always obvious. Sometimes it is those secret sins you think are more valuable than God’s instructions in those areas. For instance, a person who holds grudges will sell out God’s way to hold onto their own grudge.  When you hold a grudge you are actually holding a complaint against another person, which also bears the traits of bitterness and resentment. The bible says, “…Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord…” (Leviticus 19:18 KJV). “…But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too…” (Mark 11:25 NLT). “…Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door…” (James 5:9 KJV).

When you are holding your grudge you are saying “my grudge” is more valuable to me and worth keeping than God’s message of love in regard to letting it go. “…But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too…” (Mark 11:25 NLT).

Paul thought God’s message of love was worth dying for and knew it would benefit others. When you hold onto your grudges you are saying God’s message of love, in this area, is NOT worth dying for or letting go. “…Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord…” (Leviitus 19:18 KJV).

I talked about how significant people, I loved, showed me little or no grace or mercy during a certain period of time. It was obvious they were holding a grudge or complaint against me. When you hold a grudge against someone your behavior WILL NOT be Christ-like and you WILL harm your neighbor (those living right next to you). “…Love does no harm to a neighbor…” (Romans 13:10 NIV).

When you value your “grudge” over God’s “good news” in specific areas of your life; you WILL harm others that God loves too. In my experience, the “grudge” against me hurt my feelings, made me feel abandoned, blamed me, rejected me, shut me out, and cut me off from their love. They behaved as if their actions were justified, and left me unprotected, and broken hearted. Anywhere you place more value on your way than God’s way you are most likely hurting another person or persons… that God loves too. This can include pride, selfishness, gossip, blame, grumbling, complaining, dishonor, disrespect, and other secret sins you accept in yourself, but not others.

Paul said, “….EVERYTHING ELSE is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far more than he does his … OWN LIFE—otherwise he cannot be my disciple…” (Luke 14:26 NLT). “...The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever…” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

The only way to be truly sold-out to God is to know you possess “…the RICHES of his glory…which is Christ in you…”  (Colossians 1:27). Nothing you have or someone else has compares to the “…riches of his glory…” (Colossians 1:27). Like Peter you will say, “…‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…’ (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). Why? “….everything else is worthless …so that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

 “….everything else is worthless …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). This includes your “OWN LIFE” with all its attitudes, and ways, and behaviors that, in those secret places, DON’T line up with God’s message of love.

When you know the SOURCE of true RICHES, you will give up EVERYTHING to FOLLOW after it!!! “…it is God who worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “[God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

WHAT IS A BLESSING?

                                                                                                  

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                                         WHAT IS A BLESSING?

“…You were called so that you may inherit a BLESSING…” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV).

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 We have defined a blessed as God’s “unmerited” divine favor toward mankind. What exactly are spiritual blessings? Blessings are special favors, gifts, mercies, graces, and abilities FROM God bestowed upon HIS people.

Blessings FROM God are a sign of his relationship with you, an expression of his kindness toward you, and proof of his indwelling presence in your inner being. “…It is You who BLESSES “THE” RIGHTEOUS MAN, O Lord, You surround him WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).

To receive blessings from God means you belong to him and are “one spirit” with him, his purpose, and his will (1 Corinthians 6:17). “…Those who BELONG TO Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because YOU BELONG to him … (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them DO NOT BELONG TO HIM at all.)” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “Know that the Lord is God! It is he that made us, and we are his; we are HIS PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). [Everyone]… who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “…But he that is joined (attached) unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

Every “good” thing that happens is NOT necessarily a blessing FROM God. Just like bad things happen to good people; good things happen to bad people. “…He maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust…” (Matthew 5:45 KJV).

The sun may rise on the evil and the rain may fall on the unjust, but ONLY because God is a merciful God. The evil and unjust may have lots of money too, but that doesn’t mean they are BLESSED of God. “…THY BLESSING is upon THY PEOPLE…” (Psalms 3:8 KJV). “…YOU MAKE HIM “MOST” BLESSED forever; …” (Psalms 21:6 NASB). “…You surround him WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).

People have a tendency to envy sinners with some kind of good fortune that “ONLY” APPEARS to be a blessing and are NOT. “…Let NOT thine heart ENVY sinners…” (Proverbs 23:17 KJV). “…It’s [their]… SINS that have cut [them]… off from God. Because of [their]… SINS, he has turned away and will not listen anymore…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). “…They …serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their OWN belly…” (Romans 16:18 KJV).

God commands us to give thanks in ALL things, but he did not tell us to call ALL things a blessing. “….In everyTHING give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus…” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NASB). “….ALL THINGS work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

The word “blessing” has practically become a cliché and most people don’t even know what it means or what it is. A spiritual blessing is “unmerited” FAVOR From God. You experience a blessing when something, big or small, happens to you that you don’t deserve. God bestows it upon you anyway. For instance, “…BY GRACE have ye been saved THROUGH FAITH; …” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

If you are SAVED, “by grace,” then you have experienced a true blessing (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). Grace is “unmerited” FAVOR From God.  You didn’t EARN grace, you didn’t DESERVE grace, and you didn’t do anything WORTHY of grace. Therefore, GRACE is a blessing because it is “UNMERITED” favor FROM God.

 “…What we have RECEIVED is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has FREELY GIVEN US (unmerited favor) …” (2 Corinthians 2:12-15 KJV).

If you didn’t EARN, DESERVE, or were WORTHY of GRACE; why did God BLESS you with unmerited favor? “…God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16). “…Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). God “…SPARED NOT his own Son, but delivered him up FOR US ALL…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). ^“Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “…There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

“…Who will separate us from the love of ^[Christ? … [Nothing]…will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB). He has “….loved [you]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV).

Why is the blessing (unmerited favor) of Grace, FROM God, so important? “… [Your] … iniquities (sin) …separated [you]… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “… YOUR SINS … cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). “…Your INIQUITIES have separated between you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).

How did you become separated from God? “…Through one man SIN entered into the world, and DEATH THROUGH SIN, and so DEATH passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). .  “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…There is none righteous, no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “…ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23).

Could I fix it with God ALL by myself? “The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.  And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right (choose life), but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin that is … within me. Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…DEATH passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). .  “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

You were DOOMED to die. You had earned, deserved, and were worthy of DEATH. BUT, God deeply loved you.  God’s heart was moved to BLESS you with unmerited favor. “…God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). God …sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…[God]…sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life…” (John 3:16 KJV).

What is “the” GREATEST blessing of them all? Jesus. How is Jesus the GREATEST blessing of them all? “…He [became]… the atoning sacrifice for [y]our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV). Jesus also became “…the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV). “…Christ …died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…he (Jesus) by the grace of God should taste death for every man…” (Hebrews 3:9 KJV).

The GREATEST blessing is that Jesus switched places with you. “…ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV).

Because Jesus switched places with you the blessing of grace includes forgiveness. “…If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). “…Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies BLOT OUT “MY” TRANSGRESSIONS (sin). WASH ME THROUGHLY FROM “MINE” INIQUITY (sin), and CLEANSE ME FROM “MY SIN.” For I acknowledge my TRANSGRESSIONS (sins): and “MY SIN” is ever before me. AGAINST THEE (God), THEE ONLY, HAVE “I SINNED” AND DONE THIS EVIL IN THY SIGHT…” (Psalms 51:1-4 KJV). “Create in me a clean heart, O God…” (Psalms 51:10-19 KJV). ). “…For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more…" (Hebrews 8:12 NIV). His “…love covereth a multitude of sins…” (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8 ASV).

In addition, the blessing of GRACE is that God allowed Jesus to die when you were the LEAST deserving of all. “…sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).

What does God do to invite you to the blessing of grace? "It is written in the prophets, 'AND THEY SHALL ALL BE TAUGHT OF GOD.' Every one that hath HEARD and hath LEARNED of the Father, cometh to me…” (John 6:45 KJV). “..If I (Jesus, the WORD) be lifted up from the earth, WILL DRAW all men unto me…” (John 12:32 KJV).

What happens if you HEAR and LEARN about the blessing of grace? You can “…RECEIVE with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to SAVE [their]… souls…” (James 1:21 KJV). You can “..[become]… justified freely by his grace…” (Romans 3:24 KJV). “…[You now]… have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand...” (Romans 5:2 KJV). “…To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV).

How does hearing, learning, and receiving the Word of God BLESS you? “..The WORD OF GOD is “…the POWER of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

 “The power of God unto salvation” is the experience of the BLESSING of GRACE. During salvation, God is at work (Romans 1:16 KJV). “…God ...[sends]… forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). AND, “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to [our new]… SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).

Along with hearing the Word comes forth faith “…FAITH [also]… COMETH BY HEARING …THE WORD OF GOD…” (Roman 10:17 KJV).

“…We have obtained our introduction by faith into this GRACE in which we stand…” (Romans 5:2 NASB). “…a right relationship with God …comes by faith…” (Romans 4:13 NASB). “… [God] … [makes] …us ACCEPTED in the beloved (Jesus Christ)…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV).

A blessing is unmerited favor from God. Can you see the Blessing of Grace in salvation? Did you do anything to earn, deserve, or be worthy of it? “…Christ …[died]… for us while we were “STILL” sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “…BY GRACE have ye been saved THROUGH FAITH; and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…the GRACE of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men…” (Titus 2:11 KJV).

Is the blessing of grace experienced in salvation FREE? “…the FREE gift…” (Romans 5:15 KJV). “….the [FREE]… gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…BY GRACE have ye been saved …” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…Since it is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s GRACE would not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT).

God’s GRACE, in a nutshell, is his UNMERITED favor, and thus it is a BLESSING. “…For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we DESERVED it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his GRACE through Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT). “…A few of the people of Israel have remained faithful because of God’s GRACE—his UNDESERVED kindness in choosing them…” (Romans 11:4 NLT).

UNMERITED favor means ABSOLUTELY nothing was done to DESERVE it, but it was BLESSING to you and emanates from God’s divine, loving, KIND nature. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…… [God’s]…love is kind…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV). “…the fruit of the Spirit is… gentleness (kindness)…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

You are taught nothing in life is FREE and you have to EARN, DESERVE, and be WORTHY of everything; including love. That’s why grace is such an AWESOME BLESSING. “…Since [salvation]… is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s grace would not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT).

You have to EARN, DESERVE, and be WORTHY of everything it seems and it becomes a lifelong practice to keep the favor of those whose love and acceptance you continually covet.

If you fail, falter, make a mistake, and don’t maintain their idea of worthiness usually there is NO Grace waiting for you on the other side. The blessing of God’s grace doesn’t depend on your worthiness. “…ye are ….under GRACE…” (Romans 6:14 KJV).

So if you can’t sustain, or earn, or deserve, or be worthy of God’s favor, he gives it to you anyway. Certainly, the blessing of Grace is NOT because YOU’RE good, but because God is good.

God’s unmerited GRACE is free and abounding. “…where sin abounded, GRACE did much more abound…” (Romans 5:20 KJV).  “…God’s GRACE has set US FREE ...” (Romans 6:15 NLT). “…He is “SO” RICH in kindness and GRACE that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “….The exceeding RICHES of his GRACE in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus…” (Ephesians 2:7 KJV).

The blessing of God’s grace encourages me to treat others with the same kind of grace. “…A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. …” (John 13:34-35 KJV). "…In everything, therefore, TREAT people the same way you want them to TREAT you, for this is the Law and the Prophets…” (Matthew 7:12 NASB). “…As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold GRACE of God…” (1 Peter 4:10 KJV).

We can’t make it right with God without the BLESSING of his GRACE. “…For if you are trying to make yourselves right with God by keeping the law, you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 2:21 NLT). “…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…where sin abounded, GRACE did much more abound…” (Romans 5:20 KJV).  “…My GRACE is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV). “..Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

The true, enduring, lasting BLESSING of GRACE is found in abundance ONLY in Jesus Christ. “…much more the GRACE of God, and the gift by GRACE, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath ABOUNDED unto many…” (Romans 5:15 KJV).  “…They which receive abundance of GRACE … shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

Therefore, “…be strong in the GRACE that is in Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 2:1 KJV). Keep “…singing with GRACE in your hearts to the Lord…” (Colossians 3:16 KJV).  And “…Let your speech [continue to]… be always with GRACE…” (Colossian 4:6 KJV).

The BLESSING of GRACE is always a first response generously given BY God. “..Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV). “..The grace GIVEN unto me…” (Romans 12:3 KJV). “…according to the grace that is GIVEN to us…” (Romans 12:6 KJV). “…Because of the grace that is GIVEN to me of God…” (Romans 15:15 KJV). “…According to the grace of God which is GIVEN unto me…” (1 Corinthians 3:10 KJV). “…I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is GIVEN you by Jesus Christ...” (1 Corinthians 1:4 KJV). “…Every one of us is GIVEN GRACE according to the measure of the gift of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:7 KJV). This is where I SHOUT!

“…FREELY YE HAVE RECEIVED, FREELY GIVE...” (Matthew 10:8 KJV).

The BLESSING of Grace is available 24/7. The bible says the BLESSING of GRACE (unmerited favor) is always WITH you. “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU. Amen…” (Romans 16:20 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU ALL . Amen…” (Romans 16:24 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU…” (1 Corinthians 16:23 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU. Amen…” (1 Thessalonians 1:2 KJV). “…The GRACE of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, BE WITH YOU ALL. Amen…” (2 Corinthians 13:14 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOUR SPIRIT. Amen…” (Galatians 6:18 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU ALL. Amen…” (Philippians 4:23 KJV). “…GRACE be with you. Amen…” (Colossians 4:18 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU. Amen…” (1 Thessalonians 5:28 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ BE WITH YOU ALL. Amen…” (2 Thessalonians 3:18 KJV). “…GRACE be with thee. Amen…” (1 Timothy 6:21 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen…” (Philemon 1:25 KJV). “…GRACE be with you all. Amen…” (Titus 3:15 KJV). “…GRACE be with you all. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:25 KJV). “…The GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen…” (Revelation 22:21 KJV). 

BECAUSE the BLESSING of GRACE (unmerited favor) is always WITH you and available for you, in spite of your many mistakes, You are what you are. I am what I am. “…By the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV).

To ALL believers: “…[The BLESSING of]…GRACE  unto you, and [may it continue to]… be multiplied…” (1 Peter 1:2 KJV).

Remember, “…WE LOVE, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “…We give [God]..only what [he]…first gave us! …” (1 Chronicles 29:14 NLT). “…By the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV). There is NO BLESSING greater than God’s GRACE.

The BLESSING of his GRACE (unmerited favor) is upon your life, right now, today, and will continually be multiplied to you forevermore!!! “… [The] incomparable RICHES of [God’s]… GRACE … expressed in his kindness in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV). “…GRACE be unto you, and peace, FROM God our Father, and FROM the Lord Jesus Christ…” (1 Corinthians 1:3 KJV). “…GRACE to you and peace FROM God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ…” (Romans 1:7 KJV). “…GRACE be to you …FROM God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ…” (2 Corinthians 1:2 KJV). “…Grace be to you …FROM God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ…” (Galatians 1:3 KJV). “…GRACE be to you, …FROM God our Father, and FROM the Lord Jesus Christ…” (Ephesians 1:2 KJV). “…GRACE be unto you …FROM God our Father, and FROM the Lord Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:2 KJV). “…To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: GRACE be unto you …FROM God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ…” (Colossians 1:2 KJV). “…GRACE unto you …FROM God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ…” (2 Thessalonians 2:2 KJV). “…GRACE, mercy, and peace, FROM God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord…” (1 Timothy 1:2 KJV). “…GRACE, mercy, and peace, FROM God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord…” (2 Timothy 2:2 KJV). “…GRACE, mercy, and peace, FROM God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour…” (Titus 1:4 KJV). “…GRACE to you, and peace, FROM God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ….” (Philemon 1:3 KJV). “…GRACE and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord…” (2 Peter 1:2 KJV). “…GRACE be with you, mercy, and peace, FROM God the Father, and FROM the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love…” (2 John 1:3 KJV). “…John to the seven churches which are in Asia: GRACE be unto you, and peace, FROM him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from …” (Revelation 1:4 KJV).

ALL of God’s “unmerited,” divine favors are BLESSINGS. “… [They are]…expressed in his kindness [toward you]…in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV).

We have determined that “BLESSINGS” are special “UNMERITED” favors, gifts, mercies, graces, and abilities FROM God. “… [Oh, praise be to God for the] incomparable RICHES of [his]… GRACE...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV).

 Are you Blessed? BUY IT HERE:

Godspeed,

Dr. Pensacola