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“Homily Grits Devotional” http://www.homilygrits.com

Written by the wise 85 yr old Robert VanHoose @ http://www.homilygrits.com

December 9

Read 1 Peter 4:
Psalm 37

“Forcing Love”

“Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance?” Romans 2:4 NIV

As strange as it may seem and even harder to understand, God does not force His will upon us. We don’t have to do anything, But when God’s love comes down and the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts, we find ourselves wanting to do everything to honor God In all that we are, say, and do.

So many people seem to reject God’s call to salvation because of what they would have to quit doing or what they would have to give up.

As Holy transformation begins taking place by the renewing of our minds, we find that we want to give up the things that we know are displeasing to God, and find pleasure in doing the things that please Him.

We can never earn or merit God’s saving grace, but we can and will find ourselves wanting to respond to it with praise and thanksgiving for what He has done for us.

As the desires of our hearts change during the ongoing process of being conformed Into the image of Christ, we find God supplying these desires that allow us to honor and glorify Him.

God has placed in the hearts of all to know and love Him, but He will never force His Love, grace, and mercy on anyone. He gives us all the choice of not having to receive His love, but when we do He will turn our ‘haves” into Wants and lead us beside the still waters of His Peace.

Father, Help me to keep wanting only what You want, as I seek to lead a life fully pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen