In my previous post, we explored a fundamental truth: our reluctance to actively share the gospel often stems from a lack of genuine astonishment at God’s grace. When we are truly captivated by something, sharing it becomes an innate response. So, how can we nurture this profound amazement at God’s grace? Here are some valuable steps to consider:
1. Recognize Our Desperation Before Christ: Begin by acknowledging the dire state we were in before coming to Christ. Understand that we were once hopeless, wandering aimlessly on the broad path leading to eternal destruction. God’s rich mercy rescued us from this predicament. A significant source of the Apostle Paul’s unwavering commitment to sharing the gospel was his profound awareness of his own desperation. He knew the depths of his former state, which allowed him to truly value what God had accomplished in his life. It is crucial to remember that Paul did not possess a unique Holy Spirit; he had the same Holy Spirit available to us today.
2. Regularly Engage with Scripture: Immerse yourself in the Bible to comprehend the profound love and mercy of God. Seek out verses containing the pivotal phrase “but God,” as these verses often depict people in desperate situations who were rescued by God. Additionally, explore narratives of forgiveness, redemption, and grace found throughout Scripture, as they can ignite a deep sense of awe. As your relationship with God deepens, you will gain a clearer understanding of His attributes, and this deeper comprehension will lead to an increased sense of amazement.
3. Reflect on Your Personal Journey: Take time to reflect on your own spiritual journey and how God’s grace has transformed your life. This personal reflection can significantly enhance your appreciation for His grace.
4. Foster Community: Engage with fellow believers who can share their own experiences of God’s grace. Hearing their stories can serve as a source of inspiration and reinforcement for your own sense of amazement.
5. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a habit of gratitude for all the blessings, both big and small, that God has bestowed upon you. Recognizing His grace in everyday life can nurture a constant sense of wonder.
6. Serve Others: Get involved in acts of service and kindness. When you witness the transformative power of God’s grace in the lives of others, it can deepen your own amazement.
7. Meditate on God’s Attributes: Reflect on God’s attributes, such as His love, forgiveness, and faithfulness. Meditating on these qualities can lead to a greater appreciation of His grace.
8. Pray for Revelation: Humbly ask God to reveal the depth and extent of His grace to you. Praying for insight can lead to moments of revelation that leave you in awe of His boundless love.
Remember that cultivating amazement at God’s grace is a lifelong journey. It deepens with time, prayer, and a sincere desire to draw closer to Him—a “genuine desire.” As you continue to seek a more profound understanding of His grace, you will find yourself increasingly amazed by the limitless love and mercy He extends to you. In the words of Timothy Keller, coming to Christ leads to the realization that you are more sinful than you ever dared imagine, yet simultaneously more loved and accepted than you ever dared hope.