A time to Grow in Grace...

I'm using someone else's words today, because I simply cannot get enough of them. I find them reflective, honest, to-the-point, bold, refreshing, and thought provoking.

Scotty Smith is an author and Pastor who tweets daily. Many of his tweets are themed around "A sign you're growing in Grace". Each day I look forward to reading more gospel-soaked truth, and I hope you are encouraged thru his words.

A sign you're growing in grace:

*You discovered again today, at least 3 or 4 times, how much you need the gospel.

*You go to the harbor of God's heart more than you harbor resentment, grudges and spite.

*You've got a gospel posse that knows your darkest stuff and current struggles, bar none.

*You choose being known as someone needing God's mercy & grace, versus hiding the real you.

*You don't treat theology like a hobby or a sport, but as a sacred stewardship of truth.

*You've given up trying to explain yourself (sell) to everyone.

*You don't confuse high self-esteem with beloved-ness in Christ.

*When disheartened, you take up a towel to wash feet rather than just throw in the towel.

*Your commitment to relationships is based more on God's glory than your fulfillment .

*You no longer promise or insinuate you'll do stuff you don't have time or intent to do.

*You get convicted about your sin MORE because you feel condemned for your sin LESS.

*The gospel has given you better tools for dealing with your shame and contempt.

*You're careful not to live vicariously through your kids. Their story is THEIR story.

*You're less nosy. You don't pressure people to bend or break confidences.

*Romans 8:28 is becoming more like long term health care than a Biblical band aid to you.

*You're willing to disappoint people who have the power and will to make you pay.

*You've never worked so hard to understand the other person's perspective in a conflict.

*You talk less about the gifts God gave you & more about the glory & grace of the Giver.

*You don't cop a graceless attitude towards people who say you emphasize grace too much.

*Though not literally a hand, you have "cut off" something that causes you to sin.

*You've repented of "I had a good day" righteousness b/c Jesus forgives your "goodness" too.

*When Jesus says, "I've come to set prisoners free", you show him your shackles.

*More and more, people get the feeling that Jesus is the hero in your testimony, not you.