Uh oh .. As soon as the words came out of my mouth, I knew I handled it the wrong way. I made a boo boo and I couldn't take it back.
But God redeems ..
Mistake made. Feelings hurt. Offense taken. Lesson learned. Forgiveness extended.
In that moment, I felt my face flush with embarrassment but I also sensed the love of God overcome the lies with the truth.
"I defeated shame with my blood. I made a way for you. I came to give you life and life abundantly. You died and your life is hidden in me. I forgave you of every sin and remember no more." Holy Spirit whispered those reminders to me as I sat in silence, listening to my team process what just happened.
No need for specific details. God worked everything out perfectly (He has a way of doing that). We each chose to focus on what Jesus revealed through that situation. It personally drove me deeper into his grace. He gently questioned me on what I truly believe and understand about the gospel, about his finished work on the cross.
Love is a choice. And regardless of how dim a situation seems or the degree of error made, God redeems all things in Christ. Nothing is beyond repair, no one too far from His love.
I chose to believe the truth over the lies; to respond to His grace rather than the enemy's condemnation; to let Holy Spirit invade hearts by pursuing peace and love with everyone.
And the promises of His word came forth in a beautiful way. We each got to experience the power of choice and the glory of submitting so that Jesus reigns in us completely.
It was a memoir of humility and a testimony of putting off the old to walk in the fullness of the new. And it's Jesus alive in us.
