I'm into giving 2nd chances, and the biggest reason is because I have needed them and received them. Praise God for His grace.
He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.
There have been times in my life where I not only needed someone to step in and help but also needed someone to hold me up. It was in those times where I remember people showing up to help, and I am convinced that God stepped in at just the right time. When my wife and I chose faith, God held our hands and met our needs.
That was a 2nd chance and the grace of God several times. I've seen it in money when we have had a need. I've seen it with a friend showing up to speak into my life. Often those words were hard and cutting but needed. I've had those friends put their arms around me and hold me when life was or seemed hopeless.
What God has given us we are to give to others...
Your words have supported those who were falling; you encouraged those with shaky knees.
We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord.
Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.
It was 10 years ago this week that my family moved to Virginia. That was very much a 2nd chance and a move that only the grace of God could give our family, the ministry we are part of and beyond. I can point out over the last 30 plus years time after time where God offered His help and blessed our lives. Many of those times were difficult and too much to handle. Some were very confusing. The were 2nd chances. God used the situations around us to offer 2nd chances that have left me changed. They left a mark on my life that leaves me with an incredible desire to help others.
Yesterday I watched a video from a pastor who went through a tough time. Granted his was because of a decision he made that wrecked his life. But by God's grace and through time, God is rebuilding this man's life and using him to help others.
We see people daily who are broken, hurting and crushed by life here at our church. Maybe they need someone to talk to or a lift up. Because God gave me a 2nd chance, I'm committed to giving others a 2nd chance and sharing the hope that can only come from God. How about you?
And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
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