By The Grace Of God

There by the grace of God goes John Bradford  (go I)

This is a phrase attributed to John Bradford--an English reformer

He was awaiting death in the tower of London 

for his religious beliefs in the mid 1500's

and as he watched others being hanged made this statement.

Whether he ever stated this or not, the meaning is clear.

It is because of God's grace we can endure persecutions.

One could say, "I too might suffer the same fate".

Unfortunately, Bradford was later burned at the stake,

but he never wavered from his beliefs. 

Thank God we do not suffer this type of persecution in most countries.

But we do go through trials and tribulations daily.

We have money troubles, health problems, grief and loss.

We suffer at the hands of loved ones.

Friends disappoint.

We disappoint ourselves.

We endure pressure and suppression for our religious beliefs.

Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:10, 

"But by the grace of God, I am what I am...."

In other words, 

God's favor pours out on us giving a special ability

to go through the day to day trials and tribulations.

This ability results in a peace like no other.

We cannot earn grace, we simply receive it.

Today make a decision to receive God's grace.

God will empower you to go through whatever it is

you are in the midst of.

2 Corinthians 12:9 The Message

My grace is enough; it's all you need,

My strength comes into its own in your weakness.